Forklift Fork Extensions - Forklift extensions are a excellent choice when there is a need to reach further than your existing forks would allow. In some circumstances whenever you have a load that exceeds more than could be safely lifted on your lift truck, an extension can help you execute your job safely.
Increasing Forklift Output
Forklift extensions provide the added support and capacity considered necessary whenever lifting containers, long pallets or really heavy loads. Moreover, the extensions add more length to the blades which enables the one operating it to be able to reach increased distances. Utilizing forklift extensions really saves a business the requirement to purchase individual machinery in order to do the job. This could save potentially thousands of dollars while adding more productivity and efficiency options using the machine you already have.
Many of the fork extensions will simply slip overtop of the forklift forks. Extensions could be purchased in order to fit forks with widths from 4-6 inches. It is very vital that you measure the extensions to be certain of a right fit. Knowing that extensions have an inner width which is half an inch wider as opposed to the size stated is vital to ensuring the right fit. When obtaining your extension size, make certain it is equivalent to your blade's width. For example, if you have forks which are 6 inches wide, you would utilize an extension which is 6 inches wide.
OSHA Standards
There is safety standards established by OSHA which regulate the length of extension that you could use. Based on the regulation, extensions are not able to be longer than 50% of the actual fork length. Following these 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 popular measurements for forklift extensions in the industry are 60" and 72", although, other lengths are offered.
Securing Mechanism
Securing mechanisms are obtainable in two options. The first choice secures the extensions onto the forklift with one pull pin. This is the rapid release method. The next and safer choice is the safety loop which is welded on and offers a more secure attachment of the extension. The lift truck extensions are obtainable in both non-tapered or tapered for most pallet and container loads. Triangular extensions are utilized whenever transporting cylinder loads.
Cylinder Loads
Loads that consist of coils, pipes or drums are considered to be cylinder loads. Extensions for cylinder loads are even made of steel. They are built to fit forks up to 2" thick and which are 4" to 5" in width. Attached in place using a locking bar, they slip on and off easily. Triangular extensions differ in length from fifty four to sixty inches.
Safety Measures
It is at all times a great plan to use safety precautions whenever dealing with whatever type of industrial equipment and lift truck extensions are no different. Inspecting your forklift extensions prior to using it is likewise a good practice to get into. After the extensions have been positioned onto the forklift, the attaching mechanism should be double checked as well. Personal injury or damage to the load can occur if the extensions were to become unfastened and fall off. Adhering OSHA regulations will likewise help to guarantee the safety of the one operating it and others working close by.
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