What are industrial catwalks?
Industrial catwalk systems are a secure and sensible way for workers to access overhead areas in a plant or warehouse. They provide an easy means of accessing equipment in addition to acting as elevated footpaths for employees, and can be tailored to fit the individual needs of your facility.
Industrial catwalk systems are engineered to avoid disrupting activities at ground level, and can be assembled very quickly without the need for new construction. Catwalks coupled with mezzanines are a smart 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?
Industrial operations use catwalks for a variety of reasons, the most common being to connect two locations on the manufacturing or warehouse floor without inhibiting the wider workflow. This can also greatly improve an organization’s safety posture, as catwalks are able to channel workers away from hazardous machinery, substances, lift trucks, or other potentially unsafe operations.
Catwalk systems can also facilitate overhead access to tanks, hoppers, machinery and other large installations. Generally, it can be difficult to maintain and adjust large equipment using floor level options such as aerial lifts. Catwalk systems can be positioned so that workers can freely access equipment for regular maintenance functions.
Catwalks are frequently used in conjunction with mezzanine systems to provide access to overhead storage and work areas. These types of configurations can take advantage of the vertical area in a warehouse, greatly enhancing space utilization and efficiency.
Catwalks come in a wide range of types, so you can find one that meets your specific requirements. If you’re not sure what type of catwalk would work best for your business, contact Welch Equipment for a consultation.
What are the benefits of using industrial catwalks?
There are several advantages to putting catwalks to use in your facility. For starters, they can be freely adapted to suit the specific needs of your business. They are a perfect solution for a small business with big growth plans.
In addition, catwalk systems allow safe and easy access to all parts of your warehouse. This is particularly helpful in facilities where installed fixtures must be serviced frequently or where there is a lot of ground activity. Ultimately, industrial catwalks make more of your warehouse accessible while also keeping it safe.
How are industrial catwalks installed?
Prefabricated catwalk systems usually ship in components that can be readily assembled onsite. Supports, walkways, rails and stairs can all be bolted together fairly easily. Catwalk assembly can be completed by your own team or warehouse experts like Welch Equipment.
Made-to-order catwalk systems take a bit more effort and time. After a preliminary site survey, system design, fabrication and installation can take a few weeks.
Are industrial and warehouse catwalks safe?
Catwalks are quite safe. They come equipped with safety rails and stairs, and their sturdy steel construction is nearly impervious to minor mishaps like light lift truck impacts and other safety events.
As a matter of fact, catwalk systems can greatly enhance the safety practices within your facility by removing workers from potentially risky activities. For warehouses with heavy forklift traffic, catwalks can keep pedestrians away from lift trucks and reduce accidents.
For a few industrial jobs like smelting or chemical processing, catwalks can be crucial equipment for keeping workers away from potentially dangerous processes.
Catwalk Systems Near Me
If you think your operation could benefit from the use of catwalks, or you want to discuss options for catwalk or mezzanine systems, contact an engineering expert at Welch Equipment today.
