Afety, Uidelines – Vestil FE series User Manual

Page 4

03/10/03

2/19/2013

FE, manual.doc

AFETY

UIDELINES

Failure to read and understand the instructions included in this manual before
assembling, installing, using, or maintaining the extensions constitutes misuse
of the product.

Study the entire manual before you use the product for the first time and before each subsequent use. Read the
manual to refresh your understanding of the safe installation, use, and inspection procedures explained on p. 4-5. DO
NOT attempt to resolve any problems with the product unless you are authorized to do so and are certain that it will be
safe to use afterwards.

Electrocution might result if a fork extension contacts electrified wires. Reduce the likelihood that a fork

truck operator or bystanders might be electrocuted by applying common sense:


DO NOT contact electrified wires with any part of the fork extensions or with any other part of the fork truck;



DO NOT install the extensions in an area where contact with electrified wires is likely;



DO NOT use the extensions close to electrified wires or other sources of electricity;



Before using the extensions, always inspect the usage area for unusual conditions that require special precautions.

Material handling is inherently dangerous. Improper or careless operation might result in serious personal

injuries sustained by the operator and/or bystanders. Fork extension users should apply the following recommendations:

 ONLY use fork extensions as a means for supporting palletized loads or skids.

 DO NOT use a structurally compromised fork extension. Examples of structural damage include: a) broken tine lock,

retaining loop, or welds connecting the loop/lock to the main body of the extension (fork pocket); b) cracked, warped,
bent or excessively corroded fork pockets; and c) cracks, warps, bends or excessive corrosion of the cast tapered end
welded to the end of each fork pocket. Inspect the platform before each use according to the inspection instructions on
p. 5. DO NOT use the platform unless it passes every part of the inspection.

 DO NOT use a damaged fork extension. Inspect both extensions before each use according to the inspection

instructions below. DO NOT use an FE unless it passes every element of the inspection, or until authorized
maintenance personnel approve the extension for service.

 DO NOT stand beneath or travel under the elevated tines of a fork truck while equipped with the fork extensions or

permit others to do so.

 DO NOT use a fork extension UNLESS each label shown in Fig. 4 on p. 6 is affixed to the extension and is undamaged

and readable.

 DO NOT attempt to lift loads that exceed the 4,000lb. (~1,818kg) maximum rated load.

 DO NOT exceed the load rating of the fork truck. (See “4. Contact the manufacturer…” on p. 5).

 DO NOT attempt to lift a load using only the tapered (front) end of a fork extension. Permanent damage to the fork

extension, damage to property, or serious personal injury could result.

 DO NOT modify either fork extension in any way UNLESS you first obtain express, written approval from Vestil.

Unauthorized modifications might make the extension unsafe to use, and could result in operator and/or bystander
injury. Additionally, any modification not expressly approved by Vestil in writing automatically voids the warranty.

Inspections

Before each use:



Look for damage to either the fork extension or the tine lock/loop. Verify that the locking mechanism functions

normally.



Examine the cast tapered end of the extension. Make sure that it is not cracked or deformed, and that the

weld between the tapered end and the fork pocket portion is intact.

At least once per month:



Inspect each extension for regions where the metal has warped, bent, or cracked.



Closely inspect the tine lock/loop for damage.



Verify that all welds are intact.



Confirm that each label is located as shown in FIG. 4 on p. 6 and is undamaged and readable.

Properly pair fork extensions and lift truck tines

1. Compare the length of the truck tine to the length of the fork extension; the extension must be 150% of the tine length

OR LESS.

2. ONLY use FE-series fork extensions with truck tines that are at least 2in. (~5cm) thick.
3. To prevent side-to-side movement (by the fork extension) during use, select a model that matches the tine width (see

“Required width of supporting truck tine in inches (~cm)” from table on p. 2; also see ANSI/ITSDF B56.1-2005,
paragraph 7.39.5, p. 51, “Fork extensions shall be designed to avoid unintentional disengagement from the forks.
Lateral clearance shall not exceed [ 4.7in. approximately equal to ] 12mm between fork and extension.”)

4. Operate the lift truck in a manner consistent with the training provided by your employer. For instance, per

ANSI/ITSDF B56.1-2009, Safety Standard for Low Lift and High Lift Trucks, Part II, paragraph 5.4.3: “... Fork length