Among Hysters main safety concerns is safety. It is why they offer many pieces of optional safety devices that can be included to either the work site or the machinery itself. Following OSHA standards, Hyster manufactures both audible and visible warning devices in addition to head and work lamps.
The only warning device required on the lift truck according to ASME B56.1 and OSHA regulations is the horn on the steering wheel. The horn is basic on all kinds of lift trucks. Although lift trucks are not required to have both audible or visible warning devices, there are several situations where optional warning devices could be appropriate. These factors are unique to every work place or work site and every situation needs to be considered individually.
For audible safety devices, which are most commonly motion alarms or back-up alarms, the main point to take into account is the level of noise produced by the alarm. To begin with, the audible device needs to be distinguished from other kinds of sounds in the work site and the sound has to be very loud to be heard in the work location, even if other machinery may be running. The ability for employees to hear alarms and determine where the sound is originating from could be compromised if employees are wearing hearing protection devices. If the alarms are very offensive or disruptive to workers, nearby companies, or nearby homes, alarms may need to be disabled. If sound must be disabled, this should be able to take place readily. Regulations also have to be followed to ensure that the levels of noise do not go beyond OSHA noise limitations.
For visible safety devices, most frequently rotating, flashing or strobe lights, many factors should be considered and thought should be put into whether visible safety devices might be more appropriate compared to audible devices. Presence of reflective surfaces, operator distraction and workplace lighting are main concerns to consider 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 background surfaces and other lights that are within the work site. Position of safety devices are really important. Lights should be able to clear any overhead obstacles. Placement of lights should not cause the lights to shine or reflect into the eyes of the operator, but shielding of the lights should not overly block the light's visibility to pedestrians.
To suit numerous application needs, Hyster has a range of optional lights which consist of weather-resistant LED and halogen lights. These lights are able to hold up through vibration and shock 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 much safer. Directional lighting is needed if the lift truck lighting makes less than 2 lumens per square foot. Hyster has lots of options which would help increase visibility in low-light conditions.
Click to Download the pdf