At Hyster, your safety is amongst our main concerns. This is the reason why we provide a variety of optional safety equipment which could be added to your machine or work place. Following OSHA standards, Hyster makes work and head lamps in addition to both visible and audible warning devices.
The only warning device needed on the lift truck according to OSHA and ASME B56.1 regulations is the steering wheel horn. The horn is basic on all kinds of lift trucks. Though audible or visible warning devices are not required on all types of lift trucks, there are a few situations where optional warning devices may be suitable. These factors are unique to every work site or work place and every condition must be considered individually.
For audible safety devices, that are most commonly back-up alarms or motion alarms, the main factor to take into consideration is the level of noise produced by the alarm. To begin with, the audible device should be able to be distinguished from other types of noises in the work place and the sound should be really loud to be heard in the work location, even if other kinds of machinery could be operating. The ability for workers to hear alarms and determine where the sound is coming from can be compromised if employees wear hearing protection devices. If the alarms are too disruptive or offensive to employees, nearby companies, or nearby residents, alarms may have to be disabled. If sound should be disabled, this should be able to happen readily. Rules must also be followed to make certain that noise levels do not exceed OSHA noise limits.
For visible safety devices, most commonly rotating, flashing or strobe lights, numerous factors must be considered and thought must be put into whether visible safety devices might be more suitable than audible devices. Operator distraction, workplace lighting and presence of reflective surfaces are main concerns to take into consideration to ensure that safety devices are effective and do not pose a danger to operators or other workers. Safety light colours must be different from other lights and background surfaces that are within the work place. Placement of safety devices are of utmost importance. Lights should be able to clear any overhead obstacles. Light placement should not cause the lights to reflect or shine into the driver's eyes, but shielding of the lights should not excessively obstruct the light's visibility to pedestrians.
Hyster has a variety of optional lights to suit many application needs including halogen lights and weather-resistant LED that 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 much safer. Directional lighting is required if the truck lighting produces less than 2 lumens per square foot. Hyster has numerous options that will truly help increase visibility in low-light situations.