Forklift Fork Extensions - Lift truck extensions are a good option whenever you find you need to reach further than your typical lift truck will allow. In addition, if you find that a load exceeds over what you could securely pick up on your forklift, an extension could help you do your task safely.
Increasing Lift Truck Output
Lift truck extensions provide the added support and capacity considered necessary whenever picking up containers, long pallets or extremely heavy loads. Additionally, the extensions add more length to the blades that enables the individual operating it to be able to reach greater distances. Utilizing lift truck extensions saves a company the requirement to obtain separate equipment in order to do the task. This could save potentially thousands of dollars while adding more productivity and efficiency choices with the equipment you already have.
Numerous extensions just slip on the typical lift truck forks. Extensions could be acquired to be able to fit forks which have widths of 4, 5 and 6 inches. It is essential to measure your extensions in order to obtain a correct fit. Knowing that extensions have an inside width which is half an inch wider as opposed to the size stated is vital to ensuring the correct fit. When obtaining your extension size, be certain it is equal to your fork's width. For instance, if you have forks that are six inches wide, you would use an extension which is 6 inches wide.
OSHA Standards
There is safety standards established by OSHA which standardize the length of extension which you can utilize. According to the guidelines, extensions cannot be longer than 50% of the original fork length. Following these 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 corrosion. The two most popular sizes for lift truck extensions in the business are 60" and 72", even if, different lengths are offered.
Securing Mechanism
There are two separate securing mechanisms existing. The first alternative connects the extensions onto the forklift with one pull pin. The next and safer option is the safety loop which is welded on and offers a more stable attachment of the extension. The lift truck extensions are offered either non-tapered or tapered for nearly all container and pallet loads. Triangular extensions are utilized when 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 made to fit forks up to 2" thick and which are 4" to 5" in width. Attached in place making use of a locking bar, they slip on and off easily. Triangular extensions differ in length from fifty four to sixty inches.
Safety Measures
It is always a great idea to utilize safety precautions whenever handling whichever type of industrial equipment and lift truck extensions are no different. Checking your lift truck extensions prior to utilizing it is likewise a good routine to get into. When the extensions have been placed onto the lift truck, the securing mechanism must be inspected too. Physical injury or destruction to the load can take place if the extensions were to become loose and fall off. Following OSHA regulations would likewise help in order to ensure the safety of the person operating it and people working in close proximity.
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