Forklift Fork Extensions - Lift Truck extensions are a terrific alternative when there is a need to reach further than your existing forks will allow. In some circumstances whenever you have a load which exceeds more than can be safely picked up on your lift truck, an extension can help you do your task safely.
Increasing Forklift Productivity
Lift truck extensions provide the extra support and capacity considered necessary whenever picking up long pallets, containers or extremely heavy loads. Moreover, the extensions add more length to the blades which helps the one operating it to be able to reach increased distances. Making use of lift truck extensions truly saves a business the requirement to obtain separate equipment to be able to complete the job. This can save possibly thousands of dollars while adding more productivity and efficiency options using the equipment you already have.
Many extensions just slip over the typical forklift blades. Extensions can be bought in order to fit forks that have widths of 4, 5 and 6 inches. It is vital to measure your extensions so as to obtain a right fit. Knowing that extensions have an inner width which is half an inch wider than the size stated is paramount to ensuring the exact fit. Whenever obtaining your extension size, be certain it is equivalent to your fork's width. For instance, if you have forks that are 6 inches wide, you will use an extension which is 6 inches wide.
OSHA Standards
OSHA standards for safety have a regulation length for blade extensions. According to this particular regulation, blade extensions cannot be longer than fifty percent of the actual blade length. Following those rules will help to sustain a safe operation. A yellow powder coat finish is added to the metal forklift extensions so as to avoid corrosion. The two most popular measurements for lift truck extensions in the trade are 60" and 72", though, different lengths are obtainable.
Securing Mechanism
There are two separate securing mechanisms available. The first option connects the extensions onto the lift truck with one pull pin. The next and safer choice is the safety loop which is welded on and offers a more secure attachment of the extension. The lift truck extensions are offered in both non-tapered or tapered for nearly all pallet and container loads. Triangular extensions are utilized when transferring cylinder loads.
Cylinder Loads
Cylinder loads consist of pipes, coils or drums. The extensions made to fit cylinder loads are normally made of steel and could be designed to fit blades up to 2" thick and are 4" to 5" in width. Attached in place with a locking bar, they slide on and off easily. Triangular extensions range in length from fifty four to sixty inches.
Safety Measures
Safety measures should be used when utilizing whatever industrial tool or equipment and forklift extensions are no different. Inspecting your forklift extensions before utilizing them is a very good habit to get into. Right after placing an extension onto the forklift, the attaching mechanism should be double checked. Physical injury or destruction to the load can occur if the extensions were to become loose and fall off. Following OSHA regulations will even help so as to ensure the safety of the one operating it and people working in close proximity.
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