Fork Extension for Forklifts - Forklift extensions are a good option when you find you need to reach further than your standard forklift will allow. Furthermore, if you find that a load exceeds more than you can safely pick up on your lift truck, an extension could help you complete your task safely.
Increasing Forklift Productivity
Extensions would provide added capacity and support to the forklift whenever lifting or moving pallets, containers, or extremely heavy loads. Additionally, the extensions will add more length to the current forks enabling the individual operating it to be able to reach farther than before. Utilizing forklift extensions truly saves a company the need to buy individual equipment to be able to complete the job. This could save probably thousands of dollars while adding more efficiency and productivity options using the machine you already have.
Several of the fork extensions will simply slip overtop of the lift truck forks. Extensions could be acquired to be able to fit forks with widths from four to six inches. It is very important that you measure the extensions to be sure of 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 ensuring the exact fit. Whenever obtaining your extension size, be certain it is equal to your fork's width. For instance, if you have forks which are 6 inches wide, you will use an extension that is 6 inches wide.
OSHA Standards
There is safety standards established by OSHA which standardize the length of extension that you can use. Based on the guidelines, extensions are not able to be longer than 50% of the actual blade length. Following these rules will help to sustain a safe operation. A yellow powder coat finish is added to the steel forklift extensions to prevent corrosion. The two most popular sizes for lift truck extensions in the industry are 60" and 72", even though, different lengths are existing.
Securing Mechanism
Securing mechanisms are available in two choices. The first choice secures the extensions onto the lift truck with a single pull pin. This is the quick release mechanism. The next and safer alternative is the safety loop which is welded on and offers a more dependable attachment of the extension. The lift truck extensions are offered in both non-tapered or tapered for most container and pallet loads. Triangular extensions are utilized whenever moving cylinder loads.
Cylinder Loads
Loads which comprise pipes, drums or coils are considered to be cylinder loads. Extensions for cylinder loads are also constructed of steel. They are built to fit forks up to 2" thick and which are 4" to 5" in width. Attached in place with a locking bar, they slide off and on easily. Triangular extensions range in length from 54" to 60".
Safety Measures
Safety measures should be utilized when using whatever industrial device or equipment and forklift extensions are no different. Checking your lift truck extensions before using them is a really good practice to get into. Right after placing an extension onto the forklift, the attaching device must be double checked. Physical injury or destruction to the load can occur if the extensions were to become unfastened and fall off. Following OSHA regulations would even help so as to guarantee the safety of the one operating it and people working nearby.
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