At Hyster, your safety is among our top concerns. This is why we provide a range of optional safety equipment which could be added to your machinery or work place. Following the standards of OSHA, Hyster makes both visible and audible warning devices in addition to head and work lamps.
The only warning device needed on the lift truck according to ASME B56.1 and OSHA regulations is the steering wheel horn. The horn is standard on all types of forklifts. Though visible or audible warning devices are not required on all kinds of lift trucks, there are some cases where optional warning devices may be appropriate. These factors are unique to every work site or work place and every case must be considered individually.
For audible safety devices, which are most commonly motion alarms or back-up alarms, the main point to take into account is the noise level produced by the alarm. To begin with, the audible device must be able to be distinguished from other noises within the work site and the sound has to be loud enough to be heard in the work site, even if other types of equipment could be running. The ability for employees to hear alarms and know where the sound is originating from can be compromised if workers are wearing hearing protection devices. If the alarms are too disruptive or offensive to workers, nearby businesses, or nearby houses, alarms may need to be disabled. If sound should be disabled, this should be able to happen readily. Regulations must also be followed to make certain that noise levels do not exceed OSHA noise limits.
Visible safety devices might comprise the common flashing, strobe or rotating lights. Factors to think about with visible safety devices comprise whether or not these devices might be more suitable compared to audible devices. Presence of reflective surfaces, operator distraction and workplace lighting are all main priorities to take into account to make sure that safety devices are effective and do not pose a danger to operators or other workers. Safety light colours should be different from other lights and background surfaces which are within the work place. Safety device positioning are of utmost importance. Lights should be able to clear any overhead obstacles. Light positioning must not cause the lights to shine or reflect into the operator's eyes, but shielding of the lights should not overly obstruct the light's visibility to pedestrians.
To suit numerous application needs, Hyster has a range of optional lights that comprise halogen lights and weather-resistant LED. These lights are able to hold up through shock and vibration as well. As for work lamps and head lamps, OSHA has set standards to make working at night or in dark work areas safer. Directional lighting is needed if the forklift lighting produces less than 2 lumens per square foot. Hyster has many alternatives which will help increase visibility in low-light situations.