Fork Extension for Forklifts - Forklift extensions are a terrific option when there is a need to reach further than your existing blades will allow. In certain cases when you have a load which exceeds more than can be securely lifted on your lift truck, an extension can help you carry out your job safely.
Increasing Forklift Efficiency
Extensions will provide extra support and capacity to the lift truck when moving or lifting pallets, containers, or really heavy cargo. Also, the extensions would add more length to the current blades enabling the individual operating it to reach farther than before. Utilizing forklift extensions truly saves a company the requirement to acquire individual equipment to be able to complete the job. This could save probably thousands of dollars while adding more efficiency and productivity choices using the equipment you already have.
Many of the fork extensions will simply slip overtop of the lift truck blades. Extensions can be acquired to be able to fit blades with widths from four to six inches. It is really important that you measure the extensions to be certain of a right fit. Knowing that extensions have an inner width that is half an inch wider compared to the the size stated is paramount to making sure the right fit. Whenever acquiring your extension size, be certain it is equivalent to your blade's width. For example, if you have forks that are 6 inches wide, you would utilize an extension that is 6 inches wide.
OSHA Standards
There is safety standards established by OSHA which regulate the length of extension that you can use. According to the regulation, extensions are not able to be longer than 50% of the actual fork length. Abiding by these rules would help to sustain a safe operation. A yellow powder coat finish is added to the metal lift truck extensions so as to avoid corrosion. The two most common measurements for lift truck extensions in the business are 60" and 72", although, various lengths are available.
Securing Mechanism
There are two separate securing mechanisms available. The first alternative 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 secure attachment of the extension. The lift truck extensions are obtainable in both tapered or non-tapered for most pallet and container loads. Triangular extensions are utilized when transporting cylinder loads.
Cylinder Loads
Cylinder loads consist of coils drums or pipes. The extensions made to fit cylinder loads are typically constructed of steel and can be made to fit forks up to 2" thick and are 4" to 5" in width. Secured in place with a locking bar, they slide on and off effortlessly. Triangular extensions differ in length from 54" to 60".
Safety Measures
Safety measures must be utilized whenever using any industrial device or machinery and lift truck extensions are no different. Inspecting your lift truck extensions before utilizing them is a really great routine to get into. Right after placing an extension onto the forklift, the attaching device must be inspected. Physical injury or damage to the load could occur if the extensions were to become loose and fall off. Following OSHA regulations would even help to be able to guarantee the safety of the person operating it and others working close by.
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