Among Hysters top safety concerns is safety. It is why they provide many pieces of optional safety equipment which could be included to either the work site or the machine itself. Following OSHA standards, Hyster manufactures work and head lamps along with both visible and audible warning devices.
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 kinds of lift trucks. Though visible or audible warning devices are not required on all kinds of lift trucks, there are several cases where optional warning devices may be appropriate. These factors are unique to every work place or work site and each and every case has to be considered individually.
For audible safety devices, that are most commonly back-up alarms or motion alarms, the main point to take into account is the noise level made by the alarm. To begin with, the audible device must be able to be distinguished from other kinds of noises in the work place and the noise must be really loud to be heard in the work site, even if other kinds of machinery could be running. The ability for workers 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 offensive or disruptive to workers, nearby businesses, or nearby residents, alarms might have to be disabled. If sound needs to be disabled, this should be able to happen readily. Regulations also have to be followed in order to make sure that the levels of noise do not exceed OSHA noise limits.
For visible safety devices, most frequently flashing, strobe or rotating lights, numerous points should be considered and thought should be put into whether visible safety devices may be more appropriate compared to audible devices. Operator distraction, workplace lighting and presence of reflective surfaces are main priorities to consider to ensure that safety devices do not pose a danger to drivers or other workers and are effective. Colour of safety lights must be different from other lights and background surfaces which are in the work place. Position of safety devices are of greatest importance. Lights must be able to clear any overhead obstacles. Position of lights should 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 meet numerous application requirements, Hyster has a range of optional lights that comprise halogen lights and weather-resistant LED. These lights could hold up through shock and vibration as well. As for head lamps and work lamps, OSHA has set standards to make working in dark work areas or at night a lot safer. Directional lighting is needed if the forklift lighting makes less than 2 lumens per square foot. Hyster has numerous options which would really help increase visibility in low-light conditions.