Forklift Fork Extensions - Lift truck extensions are a good option whenever you find you have to reach further than your standard lift truck will allow. As well, if you find that a load exceeds more than you could safely lift on your forklift, an extension could help you complete your job safely.
Increasing Lift Truck Efficiency
Forklift extensions offer the extra support and capacity needed when raising long pallets, containers or very heavy loads. Additionally, the extensions add more length to the forks that enables the person operating it to reach increased distances. Utilizing lift truck extensions truly saves a company the need to purchase individual machinery so as to complete the task. This could save probably thousands of dollars while adding more efficiency and productivity choices with the machinery you already have.
Lots of extensions just slip over the standard lift truck blades. Extensions could be purchased so as to fit blades which have widths of 4, 5 and 6 inches. It is important to measure your extensions to be able to obtain a right fit. Knowing that extensions have an inside width which is half an inch wider compared to the the size stated is vital to ensuring the accurate fit. When purchasing your extension size, be sure it is equal to your blade's width. For example, if you have blades which are six inches wide, you will 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, blade extensions cannot be longer than fifty percent 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 so as to prevent corrosion. The two most popular sizes for lift truck extensions in the trade are 60" and 72", though, different lengths are available.
Securing Mechanism
There are two individual securing mechanisms 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 offers a more dependable attachment of the extension. The forklift extensions are presented in both non-tapered or tapered for nearly all container and pallet loads. Triangular extensions are utilized whenever moving cylinder loads.
Cylinder Loads
Cylinder loads consist of drums, pipes or coils. The extensions made to fit cylinder loads are normally made of steel and can be designed to fit blades up to 2" thick and are 4" to 5" in width. Attached in place with a locking bar, they slip on and off without difficulty. Triangular extensions range in length from fifty four to sixty inches.
Safety Measures
Safety precautions should be utilized whenever using any industrial tool or machinery and forklift extensions are no different. Inspecting your forklift extensions before using them is a really good practice to get into. After placing an extension onto the forklift, the securing mechanism should be inspected. Physical injury or damage to the load could take place if the extensions were to become loose and fall off. Following OSHA regulations would even help in order to ensure the safety of the individual operating it as well as people working nearby.
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