What are industrial catwalks?
Warehouse and industrial catwalks are a safe and sensible way for employees to access high up areas in a factory or warehouse. They provide an easy means of accessing equipment as well as serving as elevated footpaths for workers, and can be customized to address the specific needs of your operation.
Warehouse catwalk systems are engineered to prevent disruption of activities at ground level, and can be assembled very quickly without the need for new construction. Catwalks paired with mezzanines are a highly effective way to take advantage of the vertical space in your building and augment 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 common being to link two points on the warehouse or plant floor without inhibiting the wider workflow. This can also greatly improve an organization’s safety posture, as catwalks are able to channel employees away from hazardous equipment, chemicals, forklifts, or other potentially unsafe operations.
Catwalks can also provide overhead access to hoppers, tanks, machinery and other large installations. Oftentimes, it can be awkward to maintain and adjust oversized equipment using ground-based means such as aerial lifts. Catwalks can be positioned so that workers can readily access equipment for regular maintenance tasks.
Warehouse catwalks are often used in combination with mezzanine systems to provide access to overhead work and storage spaces. Mezzanine and catwalk combinations can make use of the cubic area in a warehouse, greatly enhancing space utilization and efficiency.
Catwalk systems are available in a broad range of styles, so you can choose 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 advice.
What are the benefits of using industrial catwalks?
There are numerous benefits to putting catwalks to use in your building. For starters, they can be readily adapted to suit the specific needs of your operation. This makes them a perfect solution for small businesses with big growth plans.
Additionally, catwalk systems enable safe and convenient accessibility to all areas of your building. This is particularly beneficial in operations where equipment must be serviced frequently or where there is a lot of ground traffic. Ultimately, catwalk systems offer better access to more of your facility while improving safety.
How are industrial catwalks installed?
Factory built catwalk systems generally come in sections that can be readily assembled at your location. Supports, walkways, stairs and rails can all be bolted together relatively easily. Catwalk assembly can be done by your own team or warehouse experts like Welch Equipment.
Made-to-order catwalks are a more involved process. After a preliminary site survey, system design, fabrication and installation can take a few weeks.
Are industrial and warehouse catwalks safe?
Without question, catwalks are safe. They come equipped with stairs and safety rails, and their sturdy steel construction can easily withstand mishaps like light lift truck impacts and other safety events.
As a matter of fact, catwalks can significantly enhance the safety profile within your facility by separating employees from potentially risky activities. For facilities with heavy lift truck traffic, catwalks can keep pedestrians away from lift trucks and reduce accidents.
For some industrial jobs like chemical processing or smelting, catwalks can be vital equipment for distancing employees from potentially dangerous activities.
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.
