Forklift Fork Extensions - Forklift extensions are a good option whenever you find you have to reach further than your standard forklift allows. Furthermore, if you find that a load exceeds more than you could safely pick up on your lift truck, an extension could help you complete your task safely.
Increasing Forklift Productivity
Forklift extensions provide the added support and capacity required whenever picking up long pallets, containers or extremely heavy loads. What's more, the extensions add more length to the blades that enables the individual operating it to reach increased distances. Utilizing lift truck extensions truly saves a company the need to acquire separate machinery so as to finish the job. This could save possibly thousands of dollars while adding more efficiency and productivity options making use of the equipment you already have.
A lot of extensions just slip on top of the typical lift truck forks. Extensions could be acquired so as to fit blades which have widths of 4", 5" and 6". It is essential to measure your extensions to be able to obtain a right fit. Knowing that extensions have an inside width that is half an inch wider as opposed to the size stated is paramount to ensuring the accurate fit. Whenever acquiring your extension size, make sure it is equivalent to your blade's width. For example, if you have blades which are six inches wide, you will make use of an extension that is 6 inches wide.
OSHA Standards
There is safety standards set by OSHA that regulate the length of extension that you can utilize. According to the guidelines, extensions can not be longer than fifty percent of the actual blade length. Following these rules will help to maintain a safe operation. A yellow powder coat finish is added to the steel lift truck extensions in order to avoid corrosion. The two most common measurements for forklift extensions in the industry are sixty inches and seventy two inches, although, other lengths are existing.
Securing Mechanism
Securing mechanisms are available in two choices. The first choice connects the extensions onto the forklift with one pull pin. This is the quick release mechanism. The second and safer alternative is the safety loop which is welded on and provides a more stable attachment of the extension. The forklift extensions are presented in both tapered or non-tapered for the majority of pallet and container loads. Triangular extensions are utilized when transporting cylinder loads.
Cylinder Loads
Cylinder loads comprise coils drums or pipes. The extensions made to fit cylinder loads are usually made of steel and could be made to fit forks up to 2" thick and are 4" to 5" in width. Fixed in place utilizing a locking bar, they slide off and on without difficulty. Triangular extensions differ in length from 54" to 60".
Safety Measures
It is at all times a good idea to utilize safety precautions whenever dealing with any type of industrial equipment and lift truck extensions are no different. Checking your forklift extensions prior to using it is likewise a great practice to get into. When the extensions have been positioned onto the lift truck, the attaching mechanism should be double checked too. Personal injury or damage to the load could take place if the extensions were to become loose and fall off. Following OSHA regulations would also help in order to ensure the safety of the individual operating it as well as people working nearby.
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