Forklift Fork Extensions - Forklift extensions are a excellent option when there is a need to reach further than your current forks will allow. In several situations when you have a load which exceeds more than can be safely picked up on your forklift, an extension could help you execute your job safely.
Increasing Forklift Efficiency
Extensions will offer added support and capacity to the lift truck whenever lifting or moving pallets, containers, or very heavy loads. In addition, the extensions would add more length to the existing forks enabling the person operating it to reach further than before. Utilizing lift truck extensions really saves a company the requirement to purchase separate machinery in order to complete the task. This can save probably thousands of dollars while adding more productivity and efficiency options making use of the machinery you already have.
Several of the fork extensions would simply slip overtop of the forklift forks. Extensions could be acquired in order to fit forks with widths from 4-6 inches. It is really important 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 than the size stated is paramount to ensuring the right fit. When obtaining your extension size, make sure it is equivalent to your blade's width. For example, if you have blades that are 6 inches wide, you will utilize an extension that is 6 inches wide.
OSHA Standards
There is safety standards established by OSHA which standardize the length of extension that you could utilize. According to the guidelines, extensions can not be longer than 50 percent of the actual fork length. Abiding by those rules will help to sustain a safe operation. A yellow powder coat finish is added to the metal lift truck extensions so as to avoid rust. The two most popular dimensions for forklift extensions in the business are sixty inches and seventy two inches, even though, other lengths are available.
Securing Mechanism
Securing mechanisms are presented in two options. The first alternative connects the extensions onto the lift truck with one pull pin. This is the rapid release mechanism. The second and safer option 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 nearly all container and pallet loads. Triangular extensions are utilized whenever transporting cylinder loads.
Cylinder Loads
Loads which comprise coils, pipes or drums are considered to be cylinder loads. Extensions for cylinder loads are also made of steel. They are built to fit blades up to 2" thick and that are 4" to 5" in width. Secured in place making use of a locking bar, they slide off and on easily. Triangular extensions vary in length from 54" to 60".
Safety Measures
It is at all times a good plan to utilize safety measures when handling whatever kind of industrial equipment and lift truck extensions are no different. Inspecting your forklift extensions prior to utilizing it is also a good practice to get into. After the extensions have been positioned onto the forklift, the attaching mechanism must be inspected too. Personal injury or damage to the load can occur if the extensions were to become unfastened and fall off. Following OSHA regulations will likewise help in order to guarantee the safety of the individual operating it and others working close by.
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