Forklift Fork Extensions - Lift truck extensions are a great option whenever you find you need to reach further than your standard forklift allows. In addition, if you find that a load exceeds over what you could safely raise on your forklift, an extension could help you complete your job safely.
Increasing Lift Truck Output
Forklift extensions offer the extra capacity and support required when raising long pallets, containers or very heavy loads. In addition, the extensions add more length to the forks which enables the person operating it to be able to reach greater distances. Utilizing lift truck extensions truly saves a company the requirement to obtain separate equipment so as to finish the task. This could save probably thousands of dollars while adding more productivity and efficiency choices making use of the equipment you already have.
A lot of the fork extensions will just slip overtop of the lift truck forks. Extensions could be acquired to fit blades with widths from four to six inches. It is very important that you gauge the extensions to be certain of a proper fit. Knowing that extensions have an inner width that is half an inch wider than the size stated is paramount to making sure the exact fit. When buying your extension size, make certain it is equal to your fork's width. For example, if you have forks which are six inches wide, you would make use of an extension which is six inches wide.
OSHA Standards
OSHA standards for safety have a guideline length for fork extensions. According to this particular regulation, fork extensions cannot be longer than 50% of the original fork length. Abiding by these rules will help to sustain a safe operation. A yellow powder coat finish is added to the metal lift truck extensions in order to avoid rust. The two most common measurements for forklift extensions in the business are 60" and 72", even if, different lengths are offered.
Securing Mechanism
There are two separate securing systems available. The first choice connects the extensions onto the lift truck with one pull pin. The next and safer alternative is the safety loop which is welded on and provides a more dependable attachment of the extension. The forklift extensions are offered either non-tapered or tapered for most pallet and container loads. Triangular extensions are used when transferring cylinder loads.
Cylinder Loads
Cylinder loads comprise drums, pipes or coils. The extensions made to fit cylinder loads are usually made of steel and can be built to fit blades up to 2" thick and are 4" to 5" in width. Attached in place making use of a locking bar, they slip on and off effortlessly. Triangular extensions vary in length from 54" to 60".
Safety Measures
It is at all times a good plan to use safety measures when handling any type of industrial equipment and lift truck extensions are no different. Checking your forklift extensions prior to use is likewise a good practice to get into. After the extensions have been positioned onto the forklift, the securing mechanism should be inspected also. Physical injury or destruction to the load could take place if the extensions were to become loose and fall off. Adhering OSHA regulations will even help to guarantee the safety of the operator as well as individuals working nearby.
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