One of Hysters top safety concerns is safety. It is the reason why they offer many pieces of optional safety equipment which could be added to either the work site or the machine itself. Following OSHA standards, Hyster makes both audible and visible warning devices in addition to head and work lamps.
The only warning device needed on the forklift according to ASME B56.1 and OSHA regulations is the steering wheel horn. The horn is basic on all kinds of forklifts. Although lift trucks are not required to have visible or audible warning devices, there are some situations where optional warning devices might be appropriate. These factors are unique to each and every work site or work place and each condition must be considered individually.
For audible safety devices, which are most commonly back-up alarms or motion alarms, the main factor to take into consideration is the noise level produced by the alarm. To begin with, the audible device needs to be distinguished from other noises within the work site and the noise has to be loud enough to be heard in the work site, even if other machinery could be running. The ability for employees to hear alarms and determine where the noise is coming from could be compromised if workers are wearing hearing protection devices. If the alarms are very offensive or disruptive to employees, nearby businesses, or nearby homes, alarms might have to be disabled. If noise should be disabled, this must be able to take place readily. Regulations also need to be followed to ensure that noise levels do not exceed OSHA noise limits.
For visible safety devices, most commonly rotating, flashing or strobe lights, many factors should be considered and thought must be put into whether visible safety devices may be more suitable compared to audible devices. Operator distraction, workplace lighting and presence of reflective surfaces are all main concerns to consider to make sure that safety devices do not pose a danger to operators or other workers and are effective. Safety light colours should be different from background surfaces and other lights which are in the work place. Safety device positioning are extremely important. Lights must be able to clear any overhead obstacles. Position of lights must not cause the lights to reflect or shine into the operator's eyes, but shielding of the lights should not overly obstruct the light's visibility to pedestrians.
Hyster has a variety of optional lights to meet numerous application requirements like weather-resistant LED and halogen lights which hold up through vibration and shock as well. As for work lamps and head lamps, OSHA has set standards to make working at night or in dark work spaces much safer. Directional lighting is required if the lighting on the forklift makes less than 2 lumens per square foot. Hyster has numerous options that will help increase visibility in low-light conditions.