One of Hysters main safety concerns is safety. It is why they offer many pieces of optional safety equipment which can be included to either the work site or the machine itself. Following the standards of OSHA, Hyster manufactures work and head lamps along with both audible and visible warning devices.
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 standard on all types of lift trucks. Though 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 and every work place or work site and each and every case must be considered individually.
For audible safety devices, which are most commonly motion alarms or back-up alarms, the main factor to consider is the noise level made by the alarm. To begin with, the audible device should be able to be distinguished from other noises within the work site and the noise must be extremely loud to be heard in the work site, even if other types of equipment could be working. The ability for workers to hear alarms and know where the sound is coming from can be compromised if employees are wearing hearing protection devices. If the alarms are very offensive or disruptive to workers, nearby companies, or nearby residents, alarms might need to be disabled. If sound should be disabled, this must be able to happen readily. Regulations also have to be followed to ensure that noise levels do not exceed OSHA noise limitations.
For visible safety devices, most frequently strobe, rotating, or flashing lights, numerous factors should be considered and thought should 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 top priorities to take into account to ensure that safety devices are effective and do not pose a danger to drivers or other employees. Safety light colours should be different from background surfaces and other lights that are in the work place. Safety device positioning are very important. Lights should be able to clear any overhead obstacles. Light positioning should not cause the lights to shine or reflect into the eyes of the operator, but shielding of the lights should not overly obstruct the light's visibility to pedestrians.
Hyster has a range of optional lights to suit many application needs including weather-resistant LED and halogen lights which hold up through vibration and shock as well. When it comes to work lamps and head lamps, OSHA has set standards to make working at night or in dark work areas a lot safer. Directional lighting is needed if the lighting on the truck makes less than 2 lumens per square foot. Hyster has a lot of alternatives that would really help increase visibility in low-light situations.