Forklift Fork Extensions - Lift truck extensions are a good choice when you find you have to reach further than your standard forklift will allow. Furthermore, if you find that a load exceeds over what you can safely raise on your lift truck, an extension could help you complete your task safely.
Increasing Forklift Productivity
Lift truck extensions provide the extra support and capacity needed whenever lifting long pallets, containers or really heavy loads. Moreover, the extensions add more length to the blades which enables the person operating it to reach greater distances. Utilizing forklift extensions really saves a business the need to buy separate equipment to be able to finish the job. This could save probably thousands of dollars while adding more efficiency and productivity options using the machinery you already have.
Many extensions just slip over the typical forklift forks. Extensions can be obtained to fit blades which have widths of 4, 5 and 6 inches. It is vital to measure your extensions so as to obtain a correct fit. Knowing that extensions have an inner width which is half an inch wider as opposed to the size stated is vital to making sure the correct fit. When obtaining your extension size, make sure it is equal to your blade's width. For instance, if you have forks that are six inches wide, you would use an extension which is 6 inches wide.
OSHA Standards
OSHA standards for safety have a regulation length for blade extensions. According to this particular regulation, fork extensions cannot be longer than fifty percent of the actual fork length. Abiding by these rules would help to maintain a safe operation. A yellow powder coat finish is added to the metal lift truck extensions to prevent corrosion. The two most common measurements for forklift extensions in the business are 60" and 72", even though, other lengths are available.
Securing Mechanism
There are two individual securing systems existing. The first choice 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 dependable attachment of the extension. The lift truck extensions are accessible in both non-tapered or tapered for the majority of pallet and container loads. Triangular extensions are utilized whenever transporting cylinder loads.
Cylinder Loads
Loads which comprise drums, coils or pipes are considered to be cylinder loads. Extensions for cylinder loads are also made of steel. They are made to fit blades up to 2" thick and that are 4" to 5" in width. Fixed in place with a locking bar, they slide on and off with no trouble. Triangular extensions range in length from fifty four to sixty inches.
Safety Measures
Safety precautions should be utilized when using any industrial device or machine and lift truck extensions are no different. Checking your forklift extensions before utilizing them is a very great routine to get into. After placing an extension onto the forklift, the securing device should be double checked. Personal injury or destruction to the load can occur if the extensions were to become unfastened and fall off. Following OSHA regulations would also help to be able to ensure the safety of the one operating it and individuals working nearby.
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