Forklift Fork Extensions - Lift Truck extensions are a excellent option whenever there is a need to reach further than your existing forks will allow. In certain cases when you have a load that exceeds more than can be safely picked up on your lift truck, an extension can help you do your job safely.
Increasing Forklift Productivity
Forklift extensions provide the added capacity and support needed whenever raising long pallets, containers or really heavy loads. Also, the extensions add more length to the forks which enables the individual operating it to be able to reach greater distances. Utilizing lift truck extensions truly saves a business the need to obtain individual machinery to be able to finish the task. This could save potentially thousands of dollars while adding more efficiency and productivity options with the machinery you already have.
Several of the fork extensions will simply slip overtop of the forklift forks. Extensions could be obtained to be able to fit blades with widths from four to six inches. It is very important that you measure the extensions to be sure of a correct fit. Knowing that extensions have an inside width that is half an inch wider as opposed to the size stated is paramount to making sure the right fit. When acquiring your extension size, be sure it is equal to your fork's width. For instance, if you have forks that are 6 inches wide, you would make use of an extension that is 6 inches wide.
OSHA Standards
There is safety standards established by OSHA which standardize the length of extension that you could use. According to the regulation, extensions cannot be longer than 50% of the actual fork length. Abiding by those rules will help to sustain a safe operation. A yellow powder coat finish is added to the metal forklift extensions so as to avoid corrosion. The two most popular dimensions for forklift extensions in the industry are sixty inches and seventy two inches, although, other lengths are offered.
Securing Mechanism
Securing mechanisms are existing in two choices. The first choice secures the extensions onto the forklift with one pull pin. This is the quick release method. The next and safer option is the safety loop which is welded on and offers a more stable attachment of the extension. The lift truck extensions are existing in both tapered or non-tapered for most pallet and container loads. Triangular extensions are utilized when moving cylinder loads.
Cylinder Loads
Cylinder loads comprise pipes, coils or drums. The extensions made to fit cylinder loads are typically constructed of steel and could be made to fit forks up to 2" thick and are 4" to 5" in width. Attached in place utilizing a locking bar, they slide off and on with no trouble. Triangular extensions differ in length from fifty four to sixty inches.
Safety Measures
It is at all times a great idea to utilize safety precautions when dealing with any kind of industrial equipment and lift truck extensions are no different. Checking your lift truck extensions prior to using it is also a good practice to get into. When the extensions have been placed onto the forklift, the attaching mechanism should be double checked too. Personal injury or destruction to the load can occur if the extensions were to become loose and fall off. Adhering OSHA regulations will likewise help so as to ensure the safety of the individual operating it as well as others working close by.
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