Forklift extensions are a terrific alternative whenever there is a need to reach further than your existing forks would allow. In some circumstances when you have a load that exceeds more than could be safely lifted on your forklift, an extension could help you complete your job safely.
Increasing Lift Truck Efficiency
Lift truck extensions offer the extra support and capacity needed whenever picking up containers, long pallets or extremely heavy loads. What's more, the extensions add more length to the forks that enables the one operating it to reach increased distances. Utilizing lift truck extensions really saves a company the need to purchase separate equipment to be able to do the task. This can save possibly thousands of dollars while adding more productivity and efficiency options making use of the equipment you already have.
Numerous extensions just slip on top of the standard forklift forks. Extensions could be purchased in order to fit forks that have widths of 4", 5" and 6". It is essential to measure your extensions to be able to obtain a proper fit. Knowing that extensions have an inner width which is half an inch wider compared to the the size stated is vital to ensuring the right fit. When obtaining your extension size, make certain it is equivalent to your fork's width. For instance, if you have blades that are 6 inches wide, you would utilize an extension which is six inches wide.
OSHA Standards
There is safety standards established by OSHA that standardize the length of extension that you can utilize. Based on the regulation, extensions can not be longer than 50 percent of the original blade length. Abiding by these rules would help to sustain a safe operation. A yellow powder coat finish is added to the steel lift truck extensions in order to avoid rust. The two most common sizes for forklift extensions in the business are 60" and 72", though, other lengths are obtainable.
Securing Mechanism
Securing mechanisms are existing in two choices. The first alternative secures the extensions onto the forklift with one pull pin. This is the quick release method. The second and safer choice is the safety loop which is welded on and offers a more secure attachment of the extension. The lift truck extensions are offered either non-tapered or tapered for most container and pallet loads. Triangular extensions are utilized whenever transferring cylinder loads.
Cylinder Loads
Loads which comprise pipes, drums or coils are considered to be cylinder loads. Extensions for cylinder loads are also made of steel. They are made to fit forks up to 2" thick and that are 4" to 5" in width. Fixed in place making use of a locking bar, they slip off and on easily. Triangular extensions differ in length from fifty four to sixty inches.
Safety Measures
Safety measures must be utilized whenever utilizing whatever industrial device or equipment and lift truck extensions are no different. Checking your forklift extensions before using them is a really great practice to get into. After placing an extension onto the forklift, the attaching mechanism should be double checked. Physical injury or damage to the load could take place if the extensions were to become unfastened and fall off. Adhering OSHA regulations would also help so as to ensure the safety of the one operating it as well as others working close by.
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