Forklift Fork Extensions - Lift truck extensions are a good alternative whenever you find you have to reach further than your typical lift truck will allow. As well, if you find that a load exceeds over what you could safely pick up on your forklift, an extension can help you complete your task safely.
Increasing Lift Truck Productivity
Lift truck extensions provide the extra capacity and support needed whenever lifting long pallets, containers or very heavy loads. Also, the extensions add more length to the blades that enables the operator to reach greater distances. Utilizing forklift extensions truly saves a company the need to obtain individual machinery to be able to do the task. This can save probably thousands of dollars while adding more efficiency and productivity alternatives utilizing the machinery you already have.
Many extensions just slip on the typical forklift forks. Extensions could be obtained to fit blades that have widths of 4", 5" and 6". It is essential to measure your extensions in order to obtain a right fit. Knowing that extensions have an inner width that is half an inch wider compared to the the size stated is paramount to ensuring the exact fit. When buying your extension size, be sure it is equal to your fork's width. For example, if you have blades that are six inches wide, you will utilize an extension that is 6 inches wide.
OSHA Standards
OSHA standards for safety have a guideline length for blade extensions. Based on this particular regulation, fork extensions cannot be longer than 50 percent of the original fork length. Following these rules will help to maintain a safe operation. A yellow powder coat finish is added to the metal forklift extensions to be able to avoid rust. The two most common sizes for forklift extensions in the business are sixty inches and seventy two inches, although, different lengths are offered.
Securing Mechanism
Securing mechanisms are obtainable in two choices. The first option connects the extensions onto the lift truck with a single pull pin. This is the quick release mechanism. The second and safer alternative is the safety loop which is welded on and offers a more dependable attachment of the extension. The forklift extensions are available in both non-tapered or tapered for nearly all pallet and container loads. Triangular extensions are utilized whenever transporting cylinder loads.
Cylinder Loads
Cylinder loads have drums, pipes or coils. The extensions made to fit cylinder loads are typically made of steel and could be built to fit blades up to 2" thick and are 4" to 5" in width. Secured in place with a locking bar, they slide off and on without difficulty. Triangular extensions vary in length from 54" to 60".
Safety Measures
It is always a good plan to use safety precautions whenever handling whichever type of industrial machinery and lift truck extensions are no different. Inspecting your lift truck extensions before use is also a good routine to get into. After the extensions have been positioned onto the forklift, the securing mechanism must be inspected as well. Personal injury or destruction to the load can take place if the extensions were to become unfastened and fall off. Following OSHA regulations would also help so as to ensure the safety of the operator and others working in close proximity.
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