Forklift Fork Extensions - Forklift extensions are a terrific alternative whenever there is a need to reach further than your current blades will allow. In several circumstances when you have a load which exceeds more than can be safely picked up on your forklift, an extension can help you do your job safely.
Increasing Lift Truck Efficiency
Extensions would offer extra support and capacity to the forklift whenever moving or lifting pallets, containers, or extremely heavy loads. Moreover, the extensions will add more length to the existing forks enabling the person operating it to be able to reach farther than before. Making use of forklift extensions truly saves a company the need to buy individual equipment so as to do the task. This could save possibly 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 forklift forks. Extensions could be acquired to fit forks with widths from four to six inches. It is really important that you measure the extensions to be certain of a correct fit. Knowing that extensions have an inner width that is half an inch wider than the size stated is vital to ensuring the correct fit. Whenever purchasing your extension size, be sure it is equivalent to your blade's width. For example, if you have forks that are six inches wide, you would utilize an extension that is six inches wide.
OSHA Standards
OSHA standards for safety have a guideline length for fork extensions. Based on this particular regulation, blade extensions cannot be longer than fifty percent of the original fork length. Abiding by those rules will help to sustain a safe operation. A yellow powder coat finish is added to the steel forklift extensions to be able to prevent rust. The two most common sizes for forklift extensions in the trade are 60" and 72", though, other lengths are offered.
Securing Mechanism
There are two separate securing systems existing. The first alternative secures the extensions onto the forklift with a single pull pin. The next and safer alternative is the safety loop which is welded on and offers a more stable attachment of the extension. The lift truck extensions are obtainable either non-tapered or tapered for nearly all pallet and container loads. Triangular extensions are used when transferring cylinder loads.
Cylinder Loads
Loads that have pipes, drums or coils are considered to be cylinder loads. Extensions for cylinder loads are likewise constructed of steel. They are built to fit blades up to 2" thick and which are 4" to 5" in width. Attached in place with a locking bar, they slide off and on without difficulty. Triangular extensions differ in length from 54" to 60".
Safety Measures
Safety measures should be used whenever using any industrial device or equipment and lift truck extensions are no different. Checking your forklift extensions before using them is a really good practice to get into. Right after placing an extension onto the forklift, the attaching device must be double checked. Physical injury or destruction to the load can take place if the extensions were to become loose and fall off. Adhering OSHA regulations would also help to be able to guarantee the safety of the individual operating it as well as others working in close proximity.
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