Among Hysters top safety concerns is safety. It is why they provide many pieces of optional safety equipment which can be added to either the work place or the machine itself. Following the standards of OSHA, Hyster makes both visible and audible warning devices as well as 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 standard on all types of lift trucks. Even if visible or audible warning devices are not required on all kinds of lift trucks, there are some situations where optional warning devices could be suitable. These factors are unique to every work site or work place and each condition should be considered individually.
Motion alarms or back-up alarms are the most common safety devices. The noise produced by these alarms are the main factor to consider. To begin with, the audible device should be able to be distinguished from other noises within the work place and the sound must be very loud to be heard in the work site, even when other equipment could be running. The ability for workers to hear alarms and know where the noise is coming from can be compromised if workers are wearing hearing protection devices. If the alarms are very offensive or disruptive to workers, nearby companies, or nearby residents, alarms may need to be disabled. If noise must be disabled, this should be able to take place readily. Regulations must also be followed to ensure that the levels of noise do not go beyond OSHA noise limits.
For visible safety devices, most frequently flashing, strobe or rotating lights, many factors must be considered and thought must be put into whether visible safety devices might be more suitable than audible devices. Workplace lighting, presence of reflective surfaces, and operator distraction are main priorities to consider to ensure that safety devices are effective and do not pose a danger to operators or other employees. Colour of safety lights should be different from other lights and background surfaces which are within the work place. Position of safety devices are of utmost importance. Lights must be able to clear any overhead obstacles. Light placement should not cause the lights to shine or reflect into the driver's eyes, but shielding of the lights must not excessively obstruct the light's visibility to pedestrians.
Hyster has a variety of optional lights to meet many application requirements such as weather-resistant LED and halogen lights 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 safer. Directional lighting is required if the lighting on the truck produces less than 2 lumens per square foot. Hyster has many alternatives that would really help increase visibility in low-light situations.