What are industrial catwalks?
Industrial catwalks are a safe and sensible way for workers to access elevated areas in a factory or warehouse. They offer an easy means of accessing equipment as well as acting as walkways for employees, and can be made-to-order to address the specific demands of your operation.
Industrial catwalk systems are engineered to avoid disrupting operations at ground level, and can be assembled overnight without the need for new construction. Catwalks coupled with mezzanines are a highly effective way to maximize the utilization of space in your facility and increase your capacity without having to go through the expense and hassle of new construction.
What are catwalks used for?
Commercial operations use catwalk systems for a variety of reasons, the most typical being to connect two locations on the warehouse or plant floor without disrupting the broader workflow. This can also greatly enhance an organization’s safety posture, as catwalks can route employees away from dangerous machinery, substances, forklifts, or other potentially unsafe activities.
Catwalk systems can also allow elevated access to tanks, hoppers, machinery and other large installations. Oftentimes, it can be difficult to maintain and adjust oversized equipment using floor level options such as aerial lifts. Catwalks can be stationed so that employees can freely access equipment for routine maintenance activities.
Catwalks are frequently used in combination with mezzanine systems to facilitate access to overhead work and storage spaces. These types of configurations can take advantage of the aerial area in a building, significantly improving space utilization and efficiency.
Catwalk systems are available in a wide array of styles, so you can choose one that meets your individual requirements. If you’re not sure what type of catwalk would work best for your operation, contact Welch Equipment for a consultation.
What are the benefits of using industrial catwalks?
There are many advantages to putting catwalks to use in your facility. For one, they can be freely customized to suit the specific needs of your operation. They are a perfect solution for a small business with big growth plans.
In addition, industrial catwalks provide safe and convenient access to all areas of your building. This is especially beneficial in operations where equipment must be serviced frequently or where there is a lot of ground traffic. Essentially, catwalk systems make more of your warehouse accessible while also keeping it safe.
How are industrial catwalks installed?
Factory built catwalks typically ship in segments that can be easily assembled onsite. Walkways, supports, stairs and rails can all be put together fairly easily. Catwalk installation can be done by your own team or outside contractors like Welch Equipment.
Made-to-order catwalks are a more involved process. After an initial site analysis, engineering, fabrication and installation can take several weeks.
Are industrial and warehouse catwalks safe?
Without question, catwalks are safe. They come equipped with safety rails and stairs, and their sturdy steel construction can easily withstand accidents like light lift truck impacts and other safety incidents.
In fact, catwalk systems can greatly improve the safety profile inside your facility by separating employees from potentially dangerous activities. For warehouses with heavy lift truck traffic, catwalks can route pedestrians away from forklifts and reduce accidents.
For some industrial jobs like chemical processing or smelting, catwalks can be crucial equipment for separating people from potentially hazardous processes.
Catwalk Systems Near Me
If you would like to learn more about catwalk systems, or you want to discuss options for catwalk or mezzanine systems, contact an engineering expert at Welch Equipment today.
