While a regular forklift can accomplish most tasks by itself, there are tasks where a standard pair of forks is insufficient. Extensions broaden a forklift’s range of functions without requiring more equipment. For businesses that handle various types of loads, extensions are an efficient way to maximize functionality.
If a forklift is fitted with an attachment, the first thing to be aware of is the reduced capacity. Fitting an attachment also shifts the load center and increases the weight at the forks. The most common case is that the forklift’s maximum rated capacity is reduced. The standard configuration of the forklift is shown on the data plate. The de-rated capacity has to be determined from the manufacturer’s documents of the attachment or from a formal evaluation. Operating a forklift with an attachment without knowing the de-rated capacity is a violation of compliance and unsafe.
Side shifters
Side shifters are the most popular attachment, and most operators take their presence for granted. Side shifters allow lateral movement of the forks without the need to reposition the truck. Most of the time, this makes placing loads in racking a lot easier. As standard, most modern forklifts come with side shifters; however, it is a good practice to keep in mind that side shifters are technically attachments, and a standard forklift capacity is reduced with their presence.
Fork Positioners
A fork positioner alters the distance between the two forks hydraulically. This is helpful for varying pallet sizes and loads of different widths. The operator no longer has to exit the cab in order to re-adjust the forks. This is a huge time-saver for high-volume operations. It also eliminates the risk of injury to the operator from adjusting the forks manually.
Drum Handling Attachments
Standard forks are not ideal for handling open-top and closed-head drums. Side drum clamps, which clamp and secure the sides of the drum, are the preferred method of drum handling if the drum is not on a pallet. This method, in combination with closed-head drum policies, is the only method that should be used to handle closed-head drums. Side drum clamps are manufactured to handle multiple drums, and should be chosen based on the diameter of the drum and the weight of the full drum.
Bale Clamps
Bale clamps are designed to replace forks. They are large arms that oppose each other to grip and hold the load. These clamps are used to handle large loads of compressible cargo, such as paper and textiles, that do not easily fit on a pallet. The compressive force of the arms is adjustable and must be appropriate for the load. Too little force and cargo drops; too much and over-compression can damage the load.
Rotators
Rotators let the fork carriage turn, usually up to a full 360 degrees. This is helpful for emptying and tipping containers, as well as for positioning loads that are brought in the wrong way. Rotators are often seen in waste handling, recycling, and food processing. The significant drop in lifting capacity that accompanies the addition of a rotator must be carefully evaluated.
Telescopic forks
Telescopic or extending forks help the operator reach loads that are beyond the reach of the standard forks. This is helpful for loading vehicles that have containers that are positioned at the back, as well as double deep racking. There is reduced rated capacity with forks that are extended, and the stability of the forklift is also affected. Because of this, operators must be aware of the restrictions and limitations before extending the forks.
Crane Jibs
Forklift cranes made by adding a crane jib to the fork carriage are helpful for lifting loads that cannot be positioned onto the forks, for example, engines and equipment that do not have a flat lifting base. The capacity is significantly reduced from the rated lift of the forklift, and the jib needs its own SWL rating and LOLER examination record. One of the more commonly seen shortcomings is using a forklift jib without knowing what the rated capacity of the jib is.
Something Common Across All Attachments
Every forklift attachment requires separate documentation for their rated capacity, host machine compatibility, and, if applicable, a current thorough examination certificate under LOLER. The attachment does not borrow the forklift’s certification. It has its own, and both must be compliant prior to the machine going into operation.
