Forklift Fork Extensions - Forklift extensions are a good choice when you find you have to reach further than your typical forklift will allow. As well, if you find that a load exceeds more than you can securely raise on your forklift, an extension can help you complete your job safely.
Increasing Lift Truck Output
Extensions will provide extra support and capacity to the forklift when moving or lifting containers, pallets, or really heavy loads. What's more, the extensions will add more length to the existing blades enabling the operator to be able to reach further than before. Utilizing lift truck extensions truly saves a company the need to obtain individual equipment so as to do the job. This could save potentially thousands of dollars while adding more productivity and efficiency options with the machinery you already have.
Several of the fork extensions would just slip overtop of the forklift blades. Extensions could be purchased so as to fit forks with widths from four to six inches. It is really important that you gauge the extensions to be certain of a right fit. Knowing that extensions have an inside width which is half an inch wider compared to the the size stated is vital to making sure the right fit. When purchasing your extension size, make certain it is equal to your blade's width. For instance, if you have blades that are 6 inches wide, you would use an extension that is six inches wide.
OSHA Standards
There is safety standards established by OSHA that regulate the length of extension that you can utilize. According to the guidelines, extensions are not able to be longer than 50 percent of the actual fork length. Following these rules would help to maintain a safe operation. A yellow powder coat finish is added to the metal forklift extensions so as to prevent corrosion. The two most common measurements for forklift extensions in the business are sixty inches and seventy two inches, even if, other lengths are obtainable.
Securing Mechanism
There are two individual securing mechanisms available. The first alternative connects the extensions onto the lift truck with one pull pin. The next and safer choice is the safety loop which is welded on and offers a more secure attachment of the extension. The forklift extensions are accessible either non-tapered or tapered for the majority of container and pallet loads. Triangular extensions are used whenever moving cylinder loads.
Cylinder Loads
Loads which comprise coils, pipes or drums are considered to be cylinder loads. Extensions for cylinder loads are likewise constructed of steel. They are designed to fit blades up to 2" thick and which are 4" to 5" in width. Secured in place with a locking bar, they slip off and on effortlessly. Triangular extensions range in length from fifty four to sixty inches.
Safety Measures
It is always a great plan to utilize safety measures when handling any type of industrial equipment and lift truck extensions are no different. Inspecting your lift truck extensions before utilizing it is likewise a great routine to get into. Once the extensions have been positioned onto the forklift, the attaching mechanism must be inspected as well. Physical injury or damage to the load can take place if the extensions were to become loose and fall off. Following OSHA regulations will also help to be able to guarantee the safety of the individual operating it and others working in close proximity.
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