Amongst Hysters main safety concerns is safety. It is the reason why they offer numerous pieces of optional safety devices which can be included to either the work site or the machine itself. Following OSHA standards, Hyster manufactures work and head lamps as well as both audible and visible warning devices.
The only warning device needed on the lift truck according to ASME B56.1 and OSHA regulations is the horn on the steering wheel. The horn is standard on all types of forklifts. Even if lift trucks are not required to have visible or audible warning devices, there are some situations where optional warning devices may be appropriate. These factors are unique to each work site or work place and each situation must be considered individually.
For audible safety devices, which are most commonly back-up alarms or motion alarms, the main point to take into consideration is the noise level produced by the alarm. First of all, the audible device must be able to be distinguished from other noises in the work site and the sound needs to be extremely loud to be heard in the work location, even if other machines may be operating. The ability for workers to hear alarms and determine where the sound is originating from could be compromised if workers wear hearing protection devices. If the alarms are too disruptive or offensive to employees, nearby houses, or nearby companies, alarms might need to be disabled. If sound should be disabled, this must be able to take place readily. Regulations must also be followed to ensure that the levels of noise do not exceed OSHA noise limits.
For visible safety devices, most frequently flashing, strobe or rotating lights, many factors must be considered and thought must be put into whether visible safety devices might be more appropriate compared to audible devices. Workplace lighting, presence of reflective surfaces, and operator distraction are top priorities to consider to make certain that safety devices are effective and do not pose a danger to operators or other workers. Colour of safety lights must be different from background surfaces and other lights which are in the work site. Safety device placement are extremely important. Lights must be able to clear any overhead obstacles. Light placement must not cause the lights to reflect or shine into the eyes of the operator, but shielding of the lights must not overly obstruct the light's visibility to pedestrians.
To suit many application requirements, Hyster has a range of optional lights that consist of halogen lights and weather-resistant LED. These lights can 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 areas much safer. Directional lighting is required if the lighting on the forklift makes less than 2 lumens per square foot. Hyster has many alternatives that would truly help increase visibility in low-light situations.