Forklift Fork Extension - Lift Truck extensions are a terrific choice whenever there is a need to reach further than your existing forks would allow. In certain cases when you have a load which exceeds more than can be safely lifted on your lift truck, an extension could help you complete your job safely.
Increasing Forklift Efficiency
Extensions will offer added capacity and support to the forklift whenever lifting or moving pallets, containers, or very heavy loads. Also, the extensions would add more length to the current forks enabling the operator to be able to reach further than before. Making use of forklift extensions truly saves a company the requirement to acquire individual machinery in order to finish the job. This can save probably thousands of dollars while adding more productivity and efficiency options with the machine you already have.
A lot of extensions just slip over the typical lift truck forks. Extensions could be purchased so as to fit blades that have widths of 4, 5 and 6 inches. It is vital to measure your extensions in order to obtain a right fit. Knowing that extensions have an inside width which is half an inch wider compared to the the size stated is vital to making sure the exact fit. Whenever purchasing your extension size, make certain it is equivalent to your blade's width. For instance, if you have forks which 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 which you can use. According to the regulation, extensions cannot be longer than fifty percent of the original blade length. Following those rules will help to sustain a safe operation. A yellow powder coat finish is added to the steel forklift extensions so as to avoid corrosion. The two most common dimensions for lift truck extensions in the business are sixty inches and seventy two inches, though, various lengths are offered.
Securing Mechanism
Securing mechanisms are offered in two options. The first option secures the extensions onto the forklift with a single pull pin. This is the quick release method. The second and safer choice is the safety loop which is welded on and offers a more stable attachment of the extension. The lift truck extensions are existing in both non-tapered or tapered for nearly all container and pallet loads. Triangular extensions are used when moving cylinder loads.
Cylinder Loads
Loads which consist of pipes, drums or coils are considered to be cylinder loads. Extensions for cylinder loads are also constructed of steel. They are designed to fit forks up to 2" thick and which are 4" to 5" in width. Fixed in place with a locking bar, they slip on and off without difficulty. Triangular extensions range in length from 54" to 60".
Safety Measures
Safety precautions should be utilized whenever utilizing whatever industrial tool or machine and lift truck extensions are no different. Checking your forklift extensions prior to using them is a really good habit to get into. After placing an extension onto the lift truck, the securing mechanism should be inspected. Physical injury or destruction to the load could take place if the extensions were to become unfastened and fall off. Following OSHA regulations would even help so as to ensure the safety of the individual operating it as well as individuals working close by.
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