Fork Extension for Forklifts - Forklift extensions are a excellent alternative when there is a need to reach further than your existing forks will allow. In certain situations whenever you have a load that exceeds more than could be safely lifted on your forklift, an extension can help you do your job safely.
Increasing Forklift Efficiency
Lift truck extensions provide the extra capacity and support considered necessary when raising containers, long pallets or extremely heavy loads. Moreover, the extensions add more length to the forks which enables the operator to be able to reach increased distances. Utilizing lift truck extensions really saves a business the requirement to obtain individual machinery so as to do the job. This can save possibly thousands of dollars while adding more efficiency and productivity alternatives utilizing the machinery you already have.
Many of the fork extensions would simply slip overtop of the lift truck forks. Extensions can be bought so as to fit forks with widths from four to six inches. It is extremely vital that you gauge the extensions to be certain of a proper fit. Knowing that extensions have an inner width which is half an inch wider than the size stated is vital to ensuring the accurate fit. Whenever acquiring 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 will utilize an extension that is 6 inches wide.
OSHA Standards
There is safety standards set by OSHA that regulate the length of extension that you could utilize. According to the regulation, extensions can not be longer than 50% 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 in order to prevent corrosion. The two most common dimensions for forklift extensions in the industry are sixty inches and seventy two inches, although, various lengths are available.
Securing Mechanism
Securing mechanisms are offered in two choices. The first alternative secures the extensions onto the forklift with a single pull pin. This is the quick release mechanism. The second and safer choice is the safety loop which is welded on and provides a more stable attachment of the extension. The forklift extensions are accessible either tapered or non-tapered for nearly all container and pallet loads. Triangular extensions are utilized whenever transporting cylinder loads.
Cylinder Loads
Cylinder loads comprise pipes, coils or drums. The extensions made to fit cylinder loads are typically constructed of steel and could be built to fit forks up to 2" thick and are 4" to 5" in width. Fixed in place using a locking bar, they slide off and on effortlessly. Triangular extensions range in length from 54" to 60".
Safety Measures
Safety measures should be utilized whenever using whatever industrial device or machinery and lift truck extensions are no different. Checking your forklift extensions prior to using them is a very good routine to get into. After placing an extension onto the lift truck, the securing device should be inspected. Physical injury or damage to the load can occur if the extensions were to become unfastened and fall off. Adhering OSHA regulations will even help to be able to guarantee the safety of the one operating it as well as others working in close proximity.
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