One of the most common forklift attachments is a set of slippers. Some times your load you are picking up might be a little longer then you might usually pickup. That’s where a set of forklift slippers or tyne extensions come in handy, as a quick and easy solution.
That is where you are wrong. Quick yes, easy far from it..
As with any attachment you put onto a forklift, it can and will reduce the lifting capacity of the unit. There are some things you need to consider when putting a set of slippers onto a forklift :
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Load size
As a general rule of thumb, the fork tyne should be at least 75% of the length of load that it is picking up.
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Reduction is lifting capacity
The forklift will lift LESS the further you further you extend the load center. It is highly recommended in going to the Forklift Manufacturer, to get a rating done so you know just how much you can really lift with a bigger load center.
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Rating plate
Now this has absolutely no bearing on what the forklift can lift. But under current law in Australia, when you start using attachments on forklifts, you must have the forklift rated and the ACTUAL LIFTING CAPACITY of the forklift with attachment put onto the DATA COMPLIANCE PLATE – ITS THE LAW, so don’t get caught.
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Operator training
This is one of the most forgotten, when something changes with the forklift, you need to ensure that the operator is trained in using the machine properly. If its you driving then no problems, but if you employ people to drive for you, spend the time showing them how it works, and keep a copy for your training records.
When using forklift and attachments it is all about training and safety, it doesn’t take much. Keep in mind there are plenty of static attachments and hydraulic attachments out there that can be used on forklifts, talk to your dealer about what you requirements are.
