Forklift Fork Extensions - Lift Truck extensions are a excellent alternative whenever there is a need to reach further than your existing forks will allow. In some situations whenever you have a load which exceeds more than could be safely picked up on your forklift, an extension could help you do your task safely.
Increasing Lift Truck Productivity
Lift truck extensions offer the added support and capacity needed whenever lifting long pallets, containers or extremely heavy loads. What's more, the extensions add more length to the blades that enables the one operating it to reach increased distances. Utilizing forklift extensions truly saves a business the requirement to acquire separate machinery to be able to finish the job. This can save possibly thousands of dollars while adding more productivity and efficiency options making use of the equipment you already have.
Lots of extensions just slip on the standard lift truck blades. Extensions could be purchased to fit forks that have widths of 4, 5 and 6 inches. It is essential to measure your extensions in order 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 paramount to ensuring the exact fit. When buying your extension size, be sure it is equal to your blade's width. For instance, if you have blades that are six inches wide, you would use an extension which is 6 inches wide.
OSHA Standards
There is safety standards set by OSHA that regulate the length of extension which you can utilize. Based on the guidelines, extensions can not be longer than 50% of the actual blade length. Abiding by those rules would help to sustain a safe operation. A yellow powder coat finish is added to the metal forklift extensions to avoid corrosion. The two most common sizes for forklift extensions in the trade are sixty inches and seventy two inches, even though, various lengths are obtainable.
Securing Mechanism
Securing mechanisms are offered in two choices. The first option connects the extensions onto the forklift with one pull pin. This is the rapid release method. The second and safer alternative is the safety loop which is welded on and provides a more dependable attachment of the extension. The lift truck extensions are accessible either tapered or non-tapered for most pallet and container loads. Triangular extensions are used whenever transporting cylinder loads.
Cylinder Loads
Loads which comprise drums, coils or pipes are considered to be cylinder loads. Extensions for cylinder loads are even constructed of steel. They are designed to fit blades up to 2" thick and which are 4" to 5" in width. Attached in place using a locking bar, they slide off and on with no trouble. Triangular extensions range in length from fifty four to sixty inches.
Safety Measures
Safety precautions should be used when using any industrial tool or machine and lift truck extensions are no different. Checking your lift truck extensions before using them is a really good habit 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 could take place if the extensions were to become loose and fall off. Adhering OSHA regulations will also help to be able to ensure the safety of the one operating it as well as those working in close proximity.
Click to Download the pdf