Forklift Fork Extensions - Forklift extensions are a good option whenever you find you need to reach further than your standard forklift allows. Moreover, if you find that a load exceeds more than you can securely raise on your lift truck, an extension can help you do your task safely.
Increasing Lift Truck Output
Lift truck extensions provide the added capacity and support required whenever lifting containers, long pallets or really heavy loads. Additionally, the extensions add more length to the blades that enables the individual operating it to be able to reach increased distances. Utilizing forklift extensions really saves a company the requirement to obtain individual machinery to be able to do the job. This could save possibly thousands of dollars while adding more productivity and efficiency alternatives making use of the equipment you already have.
A lot of the fork extensions will simply slip overtop of the forklift forks. Extensions can be acquired to be able to fit blades with widths from 4-6 inches. It is extremely important that you measure the extensions to be certain of a proper fit. Knowing that extensions have an inner width that is half an inch wider compared to the the size stated is vital to making sure the correct fit. Whenever purchasing your extension size, make sure it is equivalent to your blade's width. For example, if you have forks which are six inches wide, you would make use of an extension which is 6 inches wide.
OSHA Standards
OSHA standards for safety have a guideline length for blade extensions. According to this particular guideline, blade extensions cannot be longer than fifty percent of the actual fork length. Abiding by those rules would help to sustain a safe operation. A yellow powder coat finish is added to the steel forklift extensions so as to prevent corrosion. The two most popular dimensions for forklift extensions in the trade are sixty inches and seventy two inches, although, various lengths are offered.
Securing Mechanism
Securing mechanisms are existing in two options. The first choice connects the extensions onto the lift truck with a single 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 secure attachment of the extension. The forklift extensions are available either non-tapered or tapered for nearly all container and pallet loads. Triangular extensions are used when transporting cylinder loads.
Cylinder Loads
Cylinder loads have pipes, coils or drums. The extensions made to fit cylinder loads are usually made of steel and can be built to fit forks up to 2" thick and are 4" to 5" in width. Fixed in place with a locking bar, they slip on and off easily. Triangular extensions range in length from fifty four to sixty inches.
Safety Measures
Safety measures must be used when using whatever industrial device or equipment and lift truck extensions are no different. Checking your forklift extensions prior to utilizing them is a very good practice to get into. Right after placing an extension onto the forklift, the securing device should be double checked. Personal injury or damage to the load can take place if the extensions were to become unfastened and fall off. Adhering OSHA regulations will even help to be able to ensure the safety of the person operating it and those working close by.
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