Forklift Attachments for Specialized Material Handling

Forklifts are versatile vehicles, but they’re particularly formidable when paired with well-engineered accessories.

The right forklift attachment can turn a truck into a jib boom, a bin/container dumper, or even an overhead reel payout system. And if your facility needs task-specific equipment, an attachment may be a much less expensive alternative to a standalone solution.

Below, we’ll explain how forklift attachments from Solus Group can help you create a more productive operation by addressing specialized material handling needs. First, here are some essential safety considerations to keep in mind when purchasing.

Forklift Attachments: Safety Considerations and Compliance

Every type of attachment will fundamentally affect the balance and operation of a forklift or lift truck. That has important implications for worker safety, and depending on the intended use of the attachment, for compliance. 

OSHA requires employers to include attachments in their scheduled maintenance and inspection programs. Additionally, it’s important to take precautions before and after purchasing:

• Make sure that the attachment (along with any additional load) will not exceed the rated capacity of the forklift.
• Ensure that the attachment will not wholly obscure the operator’s vision to comply with 29 CFR 1910.178(n)(6).
• If the operator’s forward view is partially obscured, take appropriate precautions. Use spotters, establish travel lanes, and slow down and sound the horn at cross aisles (per 29 CFR 1910.178(n)(4)).
• Train operators to safely operate forklifts with attachments in place. If new attachments are purchased, re-train operators and document that training.
• Operators should understand how attachments affect the lift truck’s center of gravity. For forklift attachments that move (such as jib booms), remember that the capacity of the attachment decreases as the attachment extends. 

Apart from these general guidelines, you should analyze any material handling equipment (MHE) for safety and ergonomics when purchasing. Look for products with practical safety features that minimize fall hazards — then instruct operators to utilize those safety features at all times. 

Forklift Attachments for Specialized Material Handling from Solus Group

Solus Group provides efficient, ergonomic solutions for handling a wide variety of materials and tasks. The products below feature heavy-duty steel construction, durable powder-coat finishes, and application-specific features that increase productivity from day one.

To learn more about forklift attachments from Solus Group — or to discuss custom-engineered solutions — call 314-696-0200 to speak with a member of our sales team. 

Fixed Forklift Jib Booms

Forklifts can serve as capable jib booms, raising loads of virtually any shape, size, or weight. The BHS Fixed Forklift Jib Boom makes this possible with adjustable hook points, which lift loads of up to 6,000 lbs (2,722 kg) without the need for pallets or fork pockets. 

The Fixed Forklift Jib Boom features a Load-Lok securing hook to keep items stable during lifts. Compatible with most lift trucks, it’s an affordable and low-maintenance way to add a basic jib crane to your fleet. 

Solus Group also carries Fork Attachments (FA), which provide single-point overhead lifting for loads of up to 6,000 pounds. For the battery room, Solus Group’s Battery Lifting Beams are an excellent option for overhead lifts thanks to their non-conductive hardware construction.

Extendable Manual Jib Booms and Powered Forklift Jib Booms

The Extendable Manual Forklift Jib Boom and Powered Forklift Jib Boom start with the design of BHS’s Fixed Forklift Jib Boom and add adaptability. 

The Powered Forklift Jib Boom is easy to store and transport, and with a capacity of up to 3,000 pounds (1,361 kg), it’s a heavy-duty solution for most applications. A closed hydraulic circuit lifts loads, and velocity fuses and thermal overload protections ensure safe operation. 

The Manual Forklift Jib Boom, Extendable is a non-powered option that can lift capacities of up to 6,000 lbs (note: as with all Jib Booms, as the arm extends, the lifting capacity lowers to maintain the lift truck’s center of gravity). Ideal for automotive applications, it’s a low maintenance solution for indoor and outdoor lifting. 

Forward Bin Dumpers

Turn your lift trucks into bin dumpers with the Forward Bin Dumper attachment. It gently tilts waste bins and other containers via smooth hydraulic action. The clearview design does not obstruct the operator’s vision during use. 

135-degree forward rotation ensures complete emptying of bins up to 2,205 lbs (1,000 kg). The Forward Bin Dumper is equipped with a safety catch to prevent rotation if the bin is not correctly positioned on the tines, and its zero-maintenance pivot bearings ensure years of reliable functionality.

Reel Handler Forklift Attachments

Solus Group carries a variety of reel handler attachments to streamline transport and payout when installing electrical cable and data lines. 

• For basic lifting, loading, and transport, the Reel Handler Attachment allows forklifts to handle large spools and reels of up to 6,000 lbs (2,722 kg) with ease.
• The Overhead Reel Lifter is a solution for overhead transport, with a load capacity of up to 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg) and support for spools of up to 59" in diameter and 38" in width.
• The Dyna Reel Platform Attachment is a portable reel-roller platform that transforms forklifts into full-service payout solutions. Ideal for electricians and distributors, it can be mounted on fork pockets or pallet jacks, and the base design prevents contact with cable and wire during use.

Forklift Work Platforms and Order Picking Platforms

The Forklift Work Platform and Order Picking Platform safely elevate workers for overhead maintenance tasks. The key term is safety: Both forklift attachments are engineered to keep personnel safe (and improve OSHA compliance). 

The Forklift Work Platform features a 42-inch high guard railing with a 4-inch toe guard to keep workers (and tools) securely on the platform. A high-visibility powder coating and anti-skid surface provide additional protection, and safety harnesses can be attached at either of two integrated points.  

The Order Picking Platform includes a hook-and-chain mast restraint, anti-skid surfacing, and optional casters with wheel brakes for improved maneuverability. Both models are engineered to meet all safety standards and regulations for vehicle-mounted elevated platforms.

Forklifts Vs. Specialized Material Handling Equipment

Even if a forklift attachment can address a need, it’s not always the most efficient choice. If a task could benefit from stationary equipment — or if it requires lifting that exceeds the rated capacity of your lift trucks — you may need a specialized solution.

Solus Group can help you evaluate options and match the material handling equipment to the task. Whether you need to engineer food-safe MHE to fit into a manufacturing workflow, low-noise tilt tables and lift tables, or a custom-built vertical reciprocating conveyor for moving products between levels, we’re ready to find a solution that works for your operation. 

To discuss options for warehouses, storage facilities, and more, call  314-696-0200 or send us a message.