At Hyster, your safety is amongst our main concerns. This is why we offer a range of optional safety devices that could be included to your machinery or work place. Following OSHA standards, Hyster makes head and work 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 steering wheel horn. The horn is basic on all types of lift trucks. Although lift trucks are not required to have both audible or visible warning devices, there are a few conditions where optional warning devices might be suitable. These factors are unique to every work site or work place and every case has to be considered individually.
Back-up alarms or motion alarms are the most common safety devices. The noise made by these alarms are the main factor to take into account. First of all, the audible device needs to be distinguished from other types of sounds within the work place and the sound needs to be extremely loud to be heard in the work site, even if other equipment could be running. The ability for employees to hear alarms and determine where the noise is coming from could be compromised if workers wear hearing protection devices. If the alarms are very offensive or disruptive to employees, nearby companies, or nearby houses, alarms may have to be disabled. If noise needs to be disabled, this must be able to take place readily. Regulations should also be followed to ensure that noise levels do not go beyond OSHA noise limits.
Visible safety devices might comprise the common flashing, strobe or rotating lights. Things to consider with visible safety devices comprise whether or not these devices may be more suitable compared to audible devices. Driver distraction, workplace lighting and presence of reflective surfaces are main priorities to take into consideration to make certain that safety devices are effective and do not pose a danger to drivers or other employees. Colour of safety lights must be different from other lights and background surfaces which are within the work place. Position of safety devices are very important. Lights must be able to clear any overhead obstacles. Placement of lights should not cause the lights to shine or reflect into the eyes of the driver, but shielding of the lights must not excessively obstruct the light's visibility to pedestrians.
To meet many application requirements, Hyster has a variety of optional lights which comprise weather-resistant LED and halogen lights. These lights can hold up through shock and vibration as well. When it comes to work lamps and head lamps, OSHA has set standards to make working in dark work spaces or at night safer. Directional lighting is required if the lighting on the truck produces less than 2 lumens per square foot. Hyster has many alternatives which will help increase visibility in low-light situations.