Amongst Hysters main safety concerns is safety. It is the reason why they provide many pieces of optional safety devices which can be included to either the work site or the machine itself. Following OSHA standards, Hyster makes both audible and visible warning devices in addition to work and head lamps.
The only warning device needed on the forklift according to ASME B56.1 and OSHA regulations is the horn on the steering wheel. The horn is basic on all types of lift trucks. Even though lift trucks are not required to have audible or visible warning devices, there are a few situations where optional warning devices might be suitable. These factors are unique to each and every work place or work site and each case has to be considered individually.
Motion alarms or back-up alarms are the most common safety devices. The noise made by these alarms are the main thing to take into consideration. First of all, the audible device should be able to be distinguished from other noises within the work place and the noise needs to be very loud to be heard in the work location, even when other equipment may be working. The ability for workers to hear alarms and determine where the sound is originating from can be compromised if workers are wearing hearing protection devices. If the alarms are too offensive or disruptive to workers, nearby residents, or nearby companies, alarms may need to be disabled. If noise should be disabled, this must be able to happen readily. Regulations also need to be followed to ensure that the levels of noise do not exceed OSHA noise limitations.
For visible safety devices, most commonly strobe, rotating, or flashing lights, numerous points should be considered and thought must be put into whether visible safety devices may be more suitable than audible devices. Presence of reflective surfaces, operator distraction and workplace lighting are all main concerns to consider to make sure that safety devices are effective and do not pose a danger to drivers or other employees. Colour of safety lights should be different from other lights and background surfaces which are within the work place. Safety device positioning are of greatest importance. Lights must be able to clear any overhead obstacles. Light placement must not cause the lights to reflect or shine into the operator's eyes, but shielding of the lights should not overly block the light's visibility to pedestrians.
To suit many application needs, Hyster has a range of optional lights which include weather-resistant LED and halogen lights. These lights could hold up through shock and vibration as well. When it comes to head lamps and work lamps, OSHA has set standards to make working in dark work spaces or at night safer. Directional lighting is required if the lighting on the lift truck produces less than 2 lumens per square foot. Hyster has lots of choices which would help increase visibility in low-light situations.