Types Of Forklift Truck Extensions

The key to productive operations for any business, while lifting, moving or dumping is the forklifts. In this piece, we’ll find out the several types of forklift extensions that your business may need as well as how you can safely operate them.

Baskets and Cages

A forklift basket extension is mainly used in raising and lowering workers on site. Basket and Cage extensions come in varying sizes, depending on the number of people it should hold. And they’re made with a well-welded steel frame and an addition of a non-slip deck surface.

Safety Requirements When Using the Basket Extensions

When using basket extensions, operators need to adhere to some requirements:

• Work cages should be used to lift individuals who are performing tasks that last a short while.
• The cage needs to be securely attached to the forklift.
• Workers must stand on the floor of the work cage, rather than on ladders.
• Work cages must not be used to transport people.
• The personnel operating the forklift should perform a trial lift without an individual inside, to make sure the cage has a good path.

Tines and Fork Attachments

As mentioned, there are so many different types of forklift truck extensions, however, slipper or tine extensions are basic types of forklift extensions. They are two forks you’ll see attached to many lift trucks as well as lift loads of different sizes.

Depending on what type of truck is to be lifted and its weight, various types of tines show the length, width and load capacity of the forks. You need to know that the lower the class the lower the length and weight the forks are made to carry.

Pallet Jacks

These extensions are in most cases used to help in moving pallets whenever there isn’t a forklift around. There are two types of pallet jacks – the Manual and Powered one.

Manual pallet jacks can mainly be found in retail stores. They’re used to help employees move the heavy load around the place. They are smaller in size than the powered pallet jacks.

Powered pallet jacks are much larger, and need electricity for them to move large loads in industrial settings. Due to their size and capability, they’ve got a dead man’s switch just in case there’s an emergency. You’ll also need a license for you to operate on them.

Although forklifts may seem easy to operate, if you’re not extra cautious they become very dangerous. Here are a few basic requirements you must observe as an operator:

• Use a forklift for its designated purpose.
• Abide by the speed limits and stop signs.
• Wear a seatbelt if there’s any.
• Wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from dust or debris as you move products.

Now you at least know the possibilities a forklift can offer, as well as safety measures for its operation and the attachments needed for different tasks. Hopefully, this will keep you in good stead for the future.