Forklift extensions extend the length of a forklift's existing forks. They are typically made of structural steel and slip over existing forks. They are available in many sizes, finishes and profiles to meet specific application needs.

Safety Regulations

Fork Length --  Occupational Safety and Health Standards (OSHA) specify that fork extension length should be no longer than 150% of the original truck fork length. A truck with existing forks measuring 48” long should not be equipped with forklift extension and longer than 72”.

Load Considerations -- Forklift extensions are designed for handling of light bulky loads. The center of the load should never exceed 50% of the length of the forklift extensions. The maximum allowable load center that can be handled by a forklift with 72” forklift extensions is 36”. If the center of the load is placed further from the forklift it increases the force acting on the forks and probability for the vehicle to roll over.

Labelling -- OSHA specifies that forklifts equipped with third party front-end attachments should be labelled according to OSHA 1910.178(a)(5) specifying the truck weight, load, and maximum elevation the load may be lifted when laterally centered. 

Standards

VDI 3578 -- Attachment for forklift trucks (load lifting appliance)

SNZ NZS/ANSI/ITSDF B56.1 -- Safety Standard for Low Lift and High Lift Trucks

References

H Houst & Son, Inc.

ProLift Industrial Equipment

Image credit:

Intella Liftparts, Inc.