Forklift Fork Extension - Lift Truck extensions are a terrific choice when there is a need to reach further than your current blades would allow. In some circumstances when you have a load that exceeds more than could be safely lifted on your lift truck, an extension could help you complete your task safely.
Increasing Forklift Output
Extensions will provide added capacity and support to the lift truck when lifting or moving containers, pallets, or extremely heavy loads. Moreover, the extensions will add more length to the current forks enabling the one operating it to reach farther than before. Utilizing forklift extensions really saves a business the requirement to acquire individual equipment in order to complete the task. This could save probably thousands of dollars while adding more efficiency and productivity alternatives making use of the equipment you already have.
Numerous extensions just slip over the standard forklift forks. Extensions could be acquired so as to fit forks that have widths of 4, 5 and 6 inches. It is important to measure your extensions in order to obtain a proper fit. Knowing that extensions have an inner width which is half an inch wider compared to the the size stated is paramount to ensuring the exact fit. When obtaining your extension size, be certain it is equivalent to your blade's width. For instance, if you have blades that are six inches wide, you would use an extension that is six inches wide.
OSHA Standards
There is safety standards set by OSHA that regulate the length of extension that you can utilize. According to the regulation, extensions cannot be longer than 50% of the actual blade length. Abiding by those rules will help to sustain a safe operation. A yellow powder coat finish is added to the metal lift truck extensions to avoid corrosion. The two most popular dimensions for forklift extensions in the industry are 60" and 72", although, various lengths are offered.
Securing Mechanism
Securing mechanisms are presented in two choices. The first choice secures the extensions onto the forklift with a single pull pin. This is the quick release method. The second and safer alternative is the safety loop which is welded on and offers a more dependable attachment of the extension. The forklift extensions are offered in both non-tapered or tapered for most container and pallet loads. Triangular extensions are used whenever moving cylinder loads.
Cylinder Loads
Loads that have coils, pipes or drums are considered to be cylinder loads. Extensions for cylinder loads are also made of steel. They are designed to fit blades up to 2" thick and that are 4" to 5" in width. Attached in place with a locking bar, they slip on and off with no trouble. Triangular extensions differ in length from 54" to 60".
Safety Measures
It is at all times a good idea to use safety precautions when dealing with any kind 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 placed onto the lift truck, the securing mechanism should be inspected also. Physical injury or destruction to the load can occur if the extensions were to become loose and fall off. Adhering OSHA regulations will even help so as to guarantee the safety of the one operating it as well as people working in close proximity.
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