Forklift Fork Extensions - Lift truck extensions are a great option whenever you find you have to reach further than your standard forklift will allow. Additionally, if you find that a load exceeds over what you could securely pick up on your forklift, an extension could help you do your job safely.
Increasing Lift Truck Efficiency
Extensions would offer added support and capacity to the lift truck whenever lifting or moving containers, pallets, or really heavy cargo. Additionally, the extensions would add more length to the current forks enabling the one operating it to be able to reach further than before. Utilizing lift truck extensions saves a company the need to obtain separate equipment so as to do the task. This could save potentially thousands of dollars while adding more efficiency and productivity options using the machinery you already have.
Many of the fork extensions would just slip overtop of the forklift forks. Extensions can be obtained in order to fit blades with widths from 4-6 inches. It is very essential that you measure the extensions to be certain of a correct 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 exact fit. Whenever obtaining your extension size, make certain it is equal to your fork's width. For example, if you have blades that are 6 inches wide, you will utilize an extension that is six inches wide.
OSHA Standards
There is safety standards set by OSHA which regulate the length of extension which you can utilize. Based on the guidelines, extensions cannot be longer than fifty percent of the original blade length. Following these rules will help to maintain a safe operation. A yellow powder coat finish is added to the metal lift truck extensions so as to avoid corrosion. The two most common measurements for forklift extensions in the business are 60" and 72", even if, different lengths are available.
Securing Mechanism
Securing mechanisms are offered in two choices. The first option secures the extensions onto the forklift with one pull pin. This is the quick release method. The next and safer choice is the safety loop which is welded on and offers a more dependable attachment of the extension. The lift truck extensions are obtainable either non-tapered or tapered for the majority of pallet and container loads. Triangular extensions are utilized whenever transferring cylinder loads.
Cylinder Loads
Cylinder loads comprise coils drums or pipes. The extensions made to fit cylinder loads are usually made of steel and can be made to fit forks up to 2" thick and are 4" to 5" in width. Attached in place using a locking bar, they slip on and off with no trouble. Triangular extensions vary in length from 54" to 60".
Safety Measures
It is at all times a good idea to use safety measures whenever dealing with whichever type of industrial equipment and forklift extensions are no different. Checking your lift truck extensions prior to utilizing it is likewise a good practice to get into. When the extensions have been placed onto the forklift, the attaching mechanism should be inspected as well. Personal injury or damage to the load can occur if the extensions were to become unfastened and fall off. Following OSHA regulations would also help to ensure the safety of the one operating it and those working nearby.
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