Forklift Fork Extensions - Forklift extensions are a great alternative when you find you need to reach further than your typical lift truck will allow. Furthermore, if you find that a load exceeds over what you could safely raise on your forklift, an extension could help you carry out your task safely.
Increasing Lift Truck Productivity
Forklift extensions provide the extra support and capacity required when lifting containers, long pallets or really heavy loads. Additionally, the extensions add more length to the forks that enables the person operating it to reach greater distances. Making use of forklift extensions really saves a business the requirement to obtain individual equipment in order to complete the task. This could save potentially thousands of dollars while adding more efficiency and productivity options with the machinery you already have.
Many of the fork extensions would just slip overtop of the lift truck forks. Extensions could be obtained in order to fit forks with widths from 4-6 inches. It is extremely vital that you gauge the extensions to be sure of a correct fit. Knowing that extensions have an inside width which is half an inch wider as opposed to the size stated is vital to ensuring the exact fit. Whenever buying your extension size, make certain it is equivalent to your blade's width. For example, if you have blades which are 6 inches wide, you would use an extension that is six inches wide.
OSHA Standards
There is safety standards set by OSHA which regulate the length of extension which you could use. According to the regulation, extensions are not able to be longer than fifty percent of the original fork length. Following those rules will help to sustain a safe operation. A yellow powder coat finish is added to the metal forklift extensions so as to avoid corrosion. The two most common dimensions for forklift extensions in the trade are sixty inches and seventy two inches, though, other lengths are existing.
Securing Mechanism
Securing mechanisms are presented in two options. The first choice connects the extensions onto the lift truck with a single pull pin. This is the quick release method. The second and safer alternative is the safety loop which is welded on and provides a more secure attachment of the extension. The forklift extensions are presented either tapered or non-tapered for nearly all container and pallet loads. Triangular extensions are utilized whenever transporting cylinder loads.
Cylinder Loads
Cylinder loads comprise coils drums or pipes. The extensions made to fit cylinder loads are usually constructed of steel and can be designed to fit blades up to 2" thick and are 4" to 5" in width. Fixed in place using a locking bar, they slide off and on without difficulty. Triangular extensions range in length from fifty four to sixty inches.
Safety Measures
Safety precautions should be utilized when utilizing whichever industrial tool or machinery and forklift extensions are no different. Inspecting your forklift extensions before utilizing them is a very great practice to get into. Right after placing an extension onto the lift truck, the securing device should be inspected. Physical injury or damage to the load can take place if the extensions were to become unfastened and fall off. Following OSHA regulations will also help to be able to ensure the safety of the individual operating it and people working close by.
Click to Download the pdf