Forklift Fork Extensions - Lift Truck extensions are a terrific option when there is a need to reach further than your current forks would allow. In several cases whenever you have a load which exceeds more than could be securely raised on your forklift, an extension can help you execute your task safely.
Increasing Forklift Productivity
Extensions would offer added support and capacity to the forklift whenever lifting or moving containers, pallets, or extremely heavy cargo. What's more, the extensions would add more length to the existing blades enabling the individual operating it to reach farther than before. Utilizing lift truck extensions really saves a company the requirement to acquire individual equipment to be able to finish the job. This can save potentially thousands of dollars while adding more efficiency and productivity alternatives with the equipment you already have.
Lots of extensions just slip over the typical lift truck blades. Extensions can be bought to fit forks that have widths of 4", 5" and 6". It is vital to measure your extensions in order to obtain a proper fit. Knowing that extensions have an inner width that is half an inch wider as opposed to the size stated is paramount to making sure the correct fit. When obtaining your extension size, make sure it is equivalent to your blade's width. For example, if you have forks which are six inches wide, you would make use of an extension which is 6 inches wide.
OSHA Standards
There is safety standards established by OSHA which regulate the length of extension which you could utilize. According to the regulation, extensions are not able to be longer than 50 percent of the actual blade length. Abiding by those rules would help to maintain a safe operation. A yellow powder coat finish is added to the metal forklift extensions to be able to prevent rust. The two most popular sizes for forklift extensions in the trade are 60" and 72", though, various lengths are offered.
Securing Mechanism
Securing mechanisms are accessible in two options. The first choice connects the extensions onto the forklift with one pull pin. This is the rapid release method. The next and safer alternative is the safety loop which is welded on and offers a more dependable attachment of the extension. The lift truck extensions are available in both non-tapered or tapered for nearly all container and pallet loads. Triangular extensions are used whenever moving cylinder loads.
Cylinder Loads
Loads which have coils, pipes or drums are considered to be cylinder loads. Extensions for cylinder loads are even constructed of steel. They are made to fit forks up to 2" thick and that are 4" to 5" in width. Secured in place with a locking bar, they slide off and on easily. Triangular extensions vary in length from 54" to 60".
Safety Measures
It is at all times a good plan to utilize safety measures whenever handling any type of industrial equipment and lift truck extensions are no different. Checking your forklift extensions prior to utilizing it is also a good practice to get into. After the extensions have been placed onto the lift truck, the attaching mechanism should be double checked also. Physical injury or damage to the load could take place if the extensions were to become unfastened and fall off. Following OSHA regulations would likewise help to be able to guarantee the safety of the operator as well as individuals working close by.
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