Forklift Fork Extensions - Forklift extensions are a good choice whenever you find you need to reach further than your typical lift truck allows. Moreover, if you find that a load exceeds more than you could safely lift on your lift truck, an extension can help you complete your task safely.
Increasing Lift Truck Efficiency
Lift truck extensions offer the added support and capacity needed whenever raising containers, long pallets or very heavy loads. Additionally, the extensions add more length to the forks which helps the individual operating it to be able to reach greater distances. Utilizing forklift extensions saves a business the requirement to purchase individual equipment in order to complete the job. This can save possibly thousands of dollars while adding more productivity and efficiency choices making use of the machinery you already have.
Several of the fork extensions would just slip overtop of the forklift forks. Extensions could be bought in order to fit blades with widths from 4-6 inches. It is really vital 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 than the size stated is vital to making sure the accurate fit. Whenever acquiring your extension size, make certain it is equal to your fork's width. For instance, if you have blades that are six inches wide, you would use an extension which is 6 inches wide.
OSHA Standards
There is safety standards established by OSHA which regulate the length of extension which you can use. According to the regulation, extensions can not be longer than 50% of the original blade length. Following these rules would help to maintain 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 trade are 60" and 72", though, other lengths are obtainable.
Securing Mechanism
There are two separate securing mechanisms existing. The first alternative connects the extensions onto the forklift with a single pull pin. The next and safer alternative is the safety loop which is welded on and provides a more secure attachment of the extension. The forklift extensions are obtainable either non-tapered or tapered for most pallet and container loads. Triangular extensions are utilized whenever transporting cylinder loads.
Cylinder Loads
Loads which comprise pipes, drums or coils are considered to be cylinder loads. Extensions for cylinder loads are even made of steel. They are designed to fit forks up to 2" thick and which are 4" to 5" in width. Fixed in place utilizing a locking bar, they slide off and on with no trouble. Triangular extensions range in length from fifty four to sixty inches.
Safety Measures
Safety measures must be utilized when using whatever industrial tool or machinery and lift truck extensions are no different. Inspecting your forklift extensions before utilizing them is a really good routine to get into. After placing an extension onto the forklift, the attaching device should be inspected. Personal injury or destruction to the load could take place if the extensions were to become loose and fall off. Following OSHA regulations will also help to ensure the safety of the operator as well as those working in close proximity.
Click to Download the pdf