Forklift Safety Lights and Why they are Important |
Posted: July 14, 2020 |
Forklift Safety Lights and Why they are Important In a warehouse setting, forklift safety lights alert other forklift drivers and workers of approaching trucks, thus preventing potential accidents.
According to a recent survey, there are about 95,000 forklift accidents every year. This means that 1 in 10 forklifts will be involved in some accident at some point. But the good news is that approximately 70% of these accidents can be avoided with something as lighting. Forklift lighting is one of the numerous safety aspects that warehouse owners can incorporate into their operations. They are not only a good idea, but also an OSHA requirement. OSHA regulation requires that forklift headlights be dimly lit in the indoor areas as well as outdoor areas at night – or any other place where auxiliary lighting is needed. Forklift safety lights Blue spotlights Blue lights are installed on the front and rear of the forklift to warn workers and pedestrians about an approaching (or a nearby) truck. These lights project a bright blue light about 8ft behind and in front of the lift truck, depending on where the light is installed. When you purchase forklift blue lights, it’s essential to consider the wattage, performance, range, among other aspects, to get the most out of it. It’s an added advantage if the light comes with an aluminum house, stainless mounting bracket, and has an excellent waterproof rating. Red zone forklift lights Red zone lights are meant to illuminate the areas on either side of the lift truck that workers should avoid. It serves as a warning that reminds pedestrians to keep their distance. This way, you can minimize the chances of someone being hit by the rear-end swing when the truck turns. Importance of forklift lights OSHA compliance As mentioned earlier, having a forklift light is a requirement by OSHA. OSHA requires all forklift operators to yield the right of way to workers (pedestrians). They are to stop, slow down or sound a horn at corners, intersections, warehouses, or any place where vision is birred. Using forklift warning lights can serve as a great way to notify the workers about an oncoming truck. They also enforce a no-go zone for both pedestrians and operators, thus preventing collisions and injuries. Prevent accidents Forklift lights can serve as a warning. The red sidelights, which projects two red beams on each side of the truck, highlight lines that workers should stay behind when nearing the parties. The blue lights, on the other hand, warns pedestrians and operators about an approaching truck in areas with blind interceptions. Illuminate the area Safety and compliance aren’t the only reason to order forklift safety light. You can also get the lights for illumination reasons, especially in low light areas. Forklift lights can help workers and other forklift drivers to see the truck in poorly lit areas. Conclusion Forklift lights play an essential role in promoting a safe work environment, especially when combined with safety training. Operators and drivers must be trained, certified, and reevaluated routinely. They should also run daily checks after mounting the lights in the forklift to ensure they are working correctly. Improper forklift use and lack of training and are the main reasons companies violate OSHA regulations every year.
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