One of Hysters top safety concerns is safety. It is why they provide many pieces of optional safety equipment which could be added to either the work place or the machine itself. Following the standards of OSHA, Hyster manufactures both audible and visible warning devices as well as head and work lamps.
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 types of lift trucks. Even if lift trucks are not required to have audible or visible warning devices, there are several situations where optional warning devices may be appropriate. These factors are unique to each work site or work place and each case must be considered individually.
For audible safety devices, which are most frequently motion alarms or back-up alarms, the main factor to consider is the level of noise made by the alarm. First of all, the audible device needs to be distinguished from other kinds of sounds within the work site and the sound must be very loud to be heard in the work location, even if other kinds of equipment could be running. 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 very offensive or disruptive to employees, nearby businesses, or nearby houses, alarms might have to be disabled. If noise should be disabled, this should be able to take place readily. Regulations must also be followed to make sure that the levels of noise do not go beyond OSHA noise limitations.
For visible safety devices, most commonly strobe, rotating, or flashing lights, numerous points should be considered and thought must be put into whether visible safety devices may be more appropriate than 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. Safety light colours should be different from background surfaces and other lights that are within the work place. Position of safety devices are of greatest importance. Lights must be able to clear any overhead obstacles. Light positioning should not cause the lights to shine or reflect into the driver's eyes, but shielding of the lights should not excessively obstruct the light's visibility to pedestrians.
Hyster has a range of optional lights to suit many application needs such as 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 at night or in dark work areas much safer. Directional lighting is needed if the lighting on the lift truck makes less than 2 lumens per square foot. Hyster has a lot of alternatives which would help increase visibility in low-light conditions.