Forklift Fork Extensions - Forklift extensions are a terrific alternative whenever there is a need to reach further than your existing blades will allow. In some situations when you have a load that exceeds more than could be securely raised on your lift truck, an extension can help you execute your task safely.
Increasing Forklift Productivity
Lift truck extensions provide the extra support and capacity needed whenever picking up long pallets, containers or really heavy loads. What's more, the extensions add more length to the blades that helps the person operating it to be able to reach greater distances. Making use of lift truck extensions truly saves a business the requirement to acquire separate machinery in order to finish the task. This could save potentially thousands of dollars while adding more efficiency and productivity choices utilizing the machinery you already have.
A lot of extensions just slip on top of the standard lift truck forks. Extensions can be acquired so as to fit forks that have widths of 4, 5 and 6 inches. It is important to measure your extensions so as to obtain a right fit. Knowing that extensions have an inner width that is half an inch wider as opposed to the size stated is vital to ensuring the correct fit. When purchasing your extension size, be sure it is equivalent to your fork's width. For instance, if you have blades which are 6 inches wide, you will use an extension that is six inches wide.
OSHA Standards
There is safety standards set by OSHA which standardize the length of extension which you could utilize. According to the guidelines, extensions cannot 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 metal forklift extensions to be able to prevent corrosion. The two most popular dimensions for lift truck extensions in the business are 60" and 72", although, other lengths are offered.
Securing Mechanism
Securing mechanisms are presented in two choices. The first choice secures the extensions onto the lift truck with one pull pin. This is the rapid release method. The next and safer alternative is the safety loop which is welded on and provides a more stable attachment of the extension. The lift truck extensions are obtainable either tapered or non-tapered for the majority of container and pallet loads. Triangular extensions are utilized whenever transporting cylinder loads.
Cylinder Loads
Cylinder loads comprise pipes, coils or drums. The extensions made to fit cylinder loads are normally constructed 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 differ in length from 54" to 60".
Safety Measures
It is always a good idea to utilize safety measures when handling whichever type of industrial machinery and lift truck extensions are no different. Checking your lift truck extensions before utilizing it is even a good habit to get into. When the extensions have been positioned onto the forklift, the securing mechanism should be inspected as well. Physical injury or destruction to the load can occur if the extensions were to become unfastened and fall off. Adhering OSHA regulations would likewise help to be able to ensure the safety of the operator as well as others working close by.
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