Forklift Fork Extensions - Lift truck extensions are a good option whenever you find you have to reach further than your standard forklift will allow. Moreover, if you find that a load exceeds over what you can securely raise on your forklift, an extension could help you complete your task safely.
Increasing Forklift Efficiency
Forklift extensions offer the added support and capacity required whenever picking up long pallets, containers or really heavy loads. Also, the extensions add more length to the blades which helps the individual operating it to be able to reach greater distances. Utilizing lift truck extensions truly saves a company the need to acquire individual machinery to be able to finish the task. This could save probably thousands of dollars while adding more productivity and efficiency choices with the equipment you already have.
Lots of extensions just slip over the typical forklift blades. Extensions could be acquired so as to fit forks which have widths of 4, 5 and 6 inches. It is important to measure your extensions to be able to obtain a proper fit. Knowing that extensions have an inside width that is half an inch wider as opposed to the size stated is vital to making sure the right fit. When obtaining your extension size, make certain it is equal to your blade's width. For instance, if you have forks that are six inches wide, you would utilize an extension which is 6 inches wide.
OSHA Standards
There is safety standards set by OSHA which regulate the length of extension that you could use. Based on the guidelines, extensions are not able to be longer than 50 percent of the original blade length. Following those rules will help to maintain a safe operation. A yellow powder coat finish is added to the steel forklift extensions so as to avoid rust. The two most common measurements for forklift extensions in the trade are sixty inches and seventy two inches, though, different lengths are available.
Securing Mechanism
Securing mechanisms are presented in two choices. The first option secures the extensions onto the lift truck with one 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 stable attachment of the extension. The lift truck extensions are obtainable either non-tapered or tapered for nearly all container and pallet loads. Triangular extensions are used when transferring cylinder loads.
Cylinder Loads
Loads that comprise coils, pipes or drums are considered to be cylinder loads. Extensions for cylinder loads are likewise made of steel. They are built to fit forks up to 2" thick and that are 4" to 5" in width. Fixed in place with a locking bar, they slide on and off effortlessly. Triangular extensions range in length from 54" to 60".
Safety Measures
It is always a great plan to use safety measures whenever dealing with whatever type of industrial machinery and forklift extensions are no different. Inspecting your forklift extensions prior to using it is likewise a great habit to get into. When the extensions have been placed onto the lift truck, the attaching mechanism must be inspected as well. Physical injury or damage to the load can take place if the extensions were to become loose and fall off. Adhering OSHA regulations would even help to ensure the safety of the person operating it as well as people working close by.
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