Forklift Fork Extensions - Forklift extensions are a good option when you find you have to reach further than your standard forklift will allow. Furthermore, if you find that a load exceeds over what you could securely raise on your forklift, an extension can help you complete your task safely.
Increasing Lift Truck Productivity
Lift truck extensions offer the extra support and capacity required when raising containers, long pallets or really heavy loads. What's more, the extensions add more length to the forks which enables the individual operating it to reach increased distances. Utilizing lift truck extensions really saves a business the requirement to obtain individual equipment to be able to finish the task. This can save probably thousands of dollars while adding more productivity and efficiency options utilizing the equipment you already have.
Numerous extensions just slip on the typical lift truck forks. Extensions can be obtained so as to fit forks which have widths of 4", 5" and 6". It is vital to measure your extensions to be able 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 accurate fit. When buying your extension size, make sure it is equal to your blade's width. For instance, if you have forks which are six inches wide, you would utilize an extension that is 6 inches wide.
OSHA Standards
There is safety standards set by OSHA that standardize the length of extension which you could utilize. According to the guidelines, extensions are not able to be longer than fifty 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 steel lift truck extensions to be able to prevent rust. The two most common dimensions for lift truck extensions in the industry are 60" and 72", even though, various lengths are obtainable.
Securing Mechanism
There are two separate securing mechanisms available. The first alternative secures the extensions onto the lift truck with a single pull pin. The next and safer alternative is the safety loop which is welded on and offers a more stable attachment of the extension. The lift truck extensions are available in both tapered or non-tapered for the majority of container and pallet loads. Triangular extensions are used when transferring cylinder loads.
Cylinder Loads
Cylinder loads have drums, pipes or coils. The extensions made to fit cylinder loads are typically constructed of steel and can be designed to fit forks up to 2" thick and are 4" to 5" in width. Attached in place with a locking bar, they slide off and on effortlessly. Triangular extensions vary in length from 54" to 60".
Safety Measures
It is always a great idea to utilize safety measures when dealing with whichever type of industrial machinery and lift truck extensions are no different. Checking your lift truck extensions prior to use is likewise a good practice to get into. After the extensions have been placed onto the forklift, the attaching mechanism should be double checked as well. Personal injury or destruction to the load can take place if the extensions were to become loose and fall off. Following OSHA regulations would likewise help to be able to guarantee the safety of the person operating it as well as people working in close proximity.
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