Don't neglect fork extensions

CFTS technical manager Shaun Prendergast explains: “Fork extensions need to be checked – at least twice a year – by a competent person. They should be equipped with the appropriate knowledge and experience, able to detect defects and understanding of how important they are to the safe and continued use of the equipment.”

As well as visual checks, extensions must be marked up durably and legibly, with the following information: Manufacturer’s mark, serial number, year of manufacture, rated and load centre distance for the fork extension, and required blade cross-section and minimum blade length for the parent fork arm.

Prendergast continues: “It is your legal duty to ensure that your lift truck and all attachments – even those rarely in use – are inspected appropriately. Failure to do so puts your workers and, in turn, your business, at risk.”