Forklift Fork Extensions - Forklift extensions are a great alternative whenever you find you have to reach further than your typical forklift allows. Additionally, if you find that a load exceeds over what you could securely lift on your lift truck, an extension could help you do your job safely.
Increasing Lift Truck Productivity
Extensions will provide added capacity and support to the forklift when moving or lifting containers, pallets, or very heavy cargo. Additionally, the extensions would add more length to the current forks enabling the operator to reach further than before. Utilizing forklift extensions really saves a business the requirement to buy separate machinery in order to finish the job. This can save possibly thousands of dollars while adding more productivity and efficiency choices using the machinery you already have.
Many of the fork extensions would simply slip overtop of the forklift blades. Extensions can be bought in order to fit forks with widths from 4-6 inches. It is very important that you gauge the extensions to be sure of a correct fit. Knowing that extensions have an inside width which is half an inch wider compared to the the size stated is paramount to making sure the correct fit. When obtaining your extension size, make sure it is equivalent to your fork's width. For example, if you have blades that are six inches wide, you would use an extension which is 6 inches wide.
OSHA Standards
There is safety standards set by OSHA which regulate the length of extension which you can use. According to the guidelines, extensions can not be longer than 50 percent of the actual blade length. Following those rules would help to sustain a safe operation. A yellow powder coat finish is added to the steel lift truck extensions in order to avoid rust. The two most common dimensions for lift truck extensions in the trade are 60" and 72", although, other lengths are offered.
Securing Mechanism
Securing mechanisms are accessible in two choices. The first alternative secures the extensions onto the forklift with a single pull pin. This is the rapid release method. The next and safer option is the safety loop which is welded on and provides a more stable attachment of the extension. The forklift extensions are available either tapered or non-tapered for most container and pallet loads. Triangular extensions are utilized whenever transferring cylinder loads.
Cylinder Loads
Cylinder loads consist of coils drums or pipes. The extensions made to fit cylinder loads are usually made of steel and can be made to fit blades up to 2" thick and are 4" to 5" in width. Attached in place utilizing a locking bar, they slide on and off without difficulty. Triangular extensions differ in length from 54" to 60".
Safety Measures
Safety precautions must be used whenever utilizing whatever industrial device or machinery and lift truck extensions are no different. Inspecting your lift truck extensions before utilizing them is a very good habit to get into. Right after placing an extension onto the forklift, the securing device should be double checked. Physical injury or damage to the load could take place if the extensions were to become unfastened and fall off. Adhering OSHA regulations would also help to guarantee the safety of the one operating it as well as individuals working in close proximity.
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