Fork Extension for Forklift - Forklift extensions are a good alternative whenever you find you have to reach further than your typical forklift allows. Moreover, if you find that a load exceeds more than you can safely lift on your forklift, an extension could help you do your task safely.
Increasing Forklift Productivity
Extensions will offer added support and capacity to the forklift when lifting or moving containers, pallets, or extremely heavy loads. In addition, the extensions will add more length to the current forks enabling the person operating it to reach farther than before. Making use of forklift extensions really saves a business the requirement to purchase individual machinery in order to do the job. This could save potentially thousands of dollars while adding more efficiency and productivity alternatives using the equipment you already have.
Numerous extensions just slip on top of the standard forklift blades. Extensions can be purchased to fit blades which have widths of 4, 5 and 6 inches. It is important to measure your extensions so as to obtain a right fit. Knowing that extensions have an inner width that is half an inch wider compared to the the size stated is vital to making sure the right fit. When buying your extension size, make certain it is equal to your fork's width. For instance, if you have forks that are 6 inches wide, you would utilize an extension that is six inches wide.
OSHA Standards
There is safety standards set by OSHA which standardize the length of extension that you can utilize. According to the regulation, extensions can not be longer than 50% of the actual 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 in order to prevent rust. The two most common sizes for forklift extensions in the business are sixty inches and seventy two inches, though, other lengths are existing.
Securing Mechanism
There are two individual securing systems available. The first alternative secures the extensions onto the forklift with one pull pin. The second and safer option is the safety loop which is welded on and provides a more stable attachment of the extension. The forklift extensions are existing either non-tapered or tapered for the majority of container and pallet loads. Triangular extensions are utilized whenever transporting cylinder loads.
Cylinder Loads
Cylinder loads comprise coils drums or pipes. The extensions made to fit cylinder loads are usually constructed of steel and could be made to fit blades up to 2" thick and are 4" to 5" in width. Secured in place utilizing a locking bar, they slide off and on without difficulty. Triangular extensions vary in length from 54" to 60".
Safety Measures
Safety precautions must be used whenever using whatever industrial device or machinery and forklift extensions are no different. Checking your forklift extensions before using them is a very great routine to get into. After placing an extension onto the lift truck, the attaching mechanism should be double checked. Physical injury or destruction to the load can take place if the extensions were to become unfastened and fall off. Adhering OSHA regulations will also help so as to ensure the safety of the operator as well as those working close by.
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