5 Must-Have Visual Devices For Use Of Forklifts
The safety of workers and customers is every business owner’s obligation. It is essential to have a proactive solution to help avoid incidences that can be prevented. Forklifts make work easier in a warehouse. However, these can become a safety hazard when you lack safety precautions in place. While the operators of forklifts are working quickly to accomplish targets, no one must get hurt in the process.
Collisions with other trucks or pedestrians are likely to happen if you don’t invest in appropriate visual devices. These create visual signs to allow other people to realize an oncoming forklift. Visual devices are very effective at keeping pedestrians and other forklift operators safe from collisions. Additionally, the operator can easily see any obstruction in his path to avoid collisions. Here are visual devices that create effective visual warnings to maintain a safe warehouse.
Forklift safety lights
Also known as forklift warning lights, these are lights fitted on a forklift to project an intense beam of light on the ground behind, behind, or by the side of a forklift. Forklift safety lights come in color options including red and blue. The spotlight from these visual devices effectively warns pedestrians about an approaching forklift. This light also shows the direction the truck is coming from. On seeing this light, pedestrians or other operators have enough time to give way before approaching the truck.
Light intensity from these lights is enough to grab the attention of anyone even when looking down a clipboard or talking on the phone. The person has enough time to dash to safety before the forklift comes close. It is easy to tell where the truck is coming from to avoid collisions. Another wonderful reason to get forklift safety light is easing working in corners with poor lighting or tight spaces.
Camera system
This comes wired or wireless with one or two cameras and a display. The operator uses the display to see whatever is going on in the truck. Footage from the cameras is displayed on the monitor in real-time depending on placement. A camera inside the truck allows seeing the correct placement of the truck. This avoids placing the forks wrongly and enhances protection while picking or putting down pallets.
Mounting a camera on the forklift carriage or mast-crossbeam gives a clear view of the fork and attachments at the front end. The footage allows maneuvering the truck in the best possible position when picking or laying down goods. This lessens the chances of accidents and injury. A rearview camera allows having a clear view while reversing for safe driving. This eliminates chances of injury and damage to goods and property. The rearview camera goes on automatically after engaging the reverse gear.
Blinking device
This is an innovative and affordable product to enhance pedestrian awareness about an oncoming forklift. A blinking system for forklift safety lights comes with two flash patterns to select one most effective in your work environment. Installing this device is easy and it works seamlessly with your blue or red safety lights.
Pedestrians can see warning lights when a forklift approaches even when distracted. However, having the light blinking increases a sense of urgency that makes the pedestrian dash to safety without procrastinating.
Strobe lights
A forklift strobe light is another safety light for attaching to the truck to warn pedestrians about an oncoming truck. LED strobe lights are energy-efficient and last longer with a life span of about 50,000 hours compared to incandescent lights with 5,000 hours. Strobe lights illuminate the floor behind or in front of the forklift as it moves. This allows pedestrians to realize that the forklift is moving or stationary.
Reflective Vests
Lastly, reflective clothing such as vests is essential for forklift safety in the workplace. This comes in handy especially in a warehouse with regular movement of forklifts and heavy pedestrian traffic. High visibility clothing benefits the operator and people in the vicinity in various ways. Pedestrians can easily see the operator when getting in and out of the truck. When working at night amidst reduced visibility, reflecting clothing allows seeing the operator.
When handling loads and pallets, pedestrians are in a better position to notice the operator avoid accidents and collisions. Keep in mind that the clothing should be the right size. Loose-fitting clothing becomes a safety hazard for a likelihood of snagging on the operator or getting caught in the cabin door. Alternatively, tight-fitting clothing becomes uncomfortable and not practical for operators. Poor-fitting clothing becomes a safety hazard instead of helping. So, ensure that operators wear reflecting clothing in the right size.
Bottom line
Forklifts are essential for lifting heavy equipment in the workplace. Safety protocols are required in place to maintain the safety of pedestrians and operators. Additionally, maintaining safety limits damages and losses. Investing in visual devices such as warning lights, cameras, and reflective clothing will significantly pay off with no workplace accidents.