Forklift Fork Extensions - Forklift extensions are a excellent alternative when there is a need to reach further than your current blades will allow. In some situations whenever you have a load which exceeds more than can be safely picked up on your forklift, an extension could help you carry out your task safely.
Increasing Forklift Productivity
Extensions will offer added support and capacity to the forklift when lifting or moving pallets, containers, or extremely heavy cargo. What's more, the extensions would add more length to the existing forks enabling the one operating it to reach farther than before. Utilizing forklift extensions really saves a business the requirement to acquire separate machinery to be able to complete the job. This can save probably thousands of dollars while adding more efficiency and productivity alternatives making use of the equipment you already have.
Numerous extensions just slip over the standard forklift forks. Extensions can be obtained to be able to fit blades which have widths of 4, 5 and 6 inches. It is vital to measure your extensions so as to obtain a proper fit. Knowing that extensions have an inner width which is half an inch wider compared to the the size stated is paramount to making sure the exact fit. Whenever acquiring your extension size, be certain it is equivalent to your fork's width. For example, if you have forks which are six inches wide, you would use an extension which is 6 inches wide.
OSHA Standards
OSHA standards for safety have a regulation length for blade extensions. Based on this particular guideline, blade extensions cannot be longer than 50% of the actual blade length. Following those rules would help to maintain a safe operation. A yellow powder coat finish is added to the metal forklift extensions to be able to avoid corrosion. The two most popular dimensions for forklift extensions in the business are 60" and 72", even though, other lengths are offered.
Securing Mechanism
Securing mechanisms are offered in two choices. The first alternative secures the extensions onto the forklift with one pull pin. This is the rapid release method. The second and safer choice is the safety loop which is welded on and offers a more secure attachment of the extension. The forklift extensions are presented in both tapered or non-tapered for the majority of container and pallet loads. Triangular extensions are used when moving cylinder loads.
Cylinder Loads
Loads that comprise pipes, drums or coils are considered to be cylinder loads. Extensions for cylinder loads are even constructed of steel. They are built to fit forks up to 2" thick and that are 4" to 5" in width. Secured in place with a locking bar, they slide off and on easily. Triangular extensions vary in length from fifty four to sixty inches.
Safety Measures
Safety precautions should be utilized whenever utilizing any industrial tool or equipment and forklift extensions are no different. Checking your lift truck extensions prior to using them is a very good routine to get into. Right after placing an extension onto the lift truck, the securing mechanism must be double checked. Personal injury or damage to the load could take place if the extensions were to become loose and fall off. Adhering OSHA regulations would also help to be able to guarantee the safety of the individual operating it as well as others working close by.
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