Forklift Fork Extension - Forklift extensions are a terrific choice when there is a need to reach further than your existing forks would allow. In several circumstances when you have a load which exceeds more than can be securely lifted on your lift truck, an extension could help you carry out your job safely.
Increasing Lift Truck Productivity
Lift truck extensions provide the added support and capacity considered necessary when lifting long pallets, containers or really heavy loads. In addition, the extensions add more length to the forks that enables the person operating it to be able to reach greater distances. Utilizing forklift extensions truly saves a company the need to purchase separate machinery in order to finish the task. This could save probably thousands of dollars while adding more efficiency and productivity choices with the machinery you already have.
Numerous extensions just slip on the typical forklift blades. Extensions could be bought so as to fit blades which have widths of 4", 5" and 6". It is essential to measure your extensions so as to obtain a correct fit. Knowing that extensions have an inside width that is half an inch wider compared to the the size stated is paramount to making sure the correct fit. Whenever acquiring your extension size, make sure it is equivalent to your fork's width. For instance, if you have blades that are 6 inches wide, you will utilize an extension which is 6 inches wide.
OSHA Standards
There is safety standards established by OSHA that standardize the length of extension which you can use. Based on the regulation, extensions can not be longer than fifty percent of the original fork length. Abiding by those rules would help to sustain a safe operation. A yellow powder coat finish is added to the steel lift truck extensions so as to avoid rust. The two most common dimensions for forklift extensions in the trade are sixty inches and seventy two inches, even though, various lengths are existing.
Securing Mechanism
There are two individual securing systems available. The first alternative connects the extensions onto the forklift with a single pull pin. The next and safer alternative is the safety loop which is welded on and provides a more secure attachment of the extension. The lift truck extensions are offered either tapered or non-tapered for most container and pallet loads. Triangular extensions are used when transporting cylinder loads.
Cylinder Loads
Cylinder loads consist of drums, pipes or coils. The extensions made to fit cylinder loads are typically constructed of steel and can be built to fit blades up to 2" thick and are 4" to 5" in width. Fixed in place with a locking bar, they slide off and on effortlessly. Triangular extensions range in length from fifty four to sixty inches.
Safety Measures
It is at all times a good plan to use safety precautions when dealing with whichever type of industrial equipment and forklift extensions are no different. Checking your forklift extensions before utilizing it is also a good habit to get into. When the extensions have been positioned onto the forklift, the securing mechanism should be double checked too. Personal injury or damage to the load can occur 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 individual operating it and people working in close proximity.
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