What are industrial catwalks?

Industrial catwalk systems are a safe and sensible way for workers to access overhead areas in a warehouse or factory. They provide an easy means of accessing equipment in addition to serving as walkways for workers, and can be tailored to address the specific requirements of your facility.

Industrial catwalk systems are designed to prevent disruption of activities at ground level, and can be installed very quickly with no new construction needed. Catwalks paired with mezzanines are a great way to maximize the utilization of space in your building and increase your capacity without the considerable pain of new construction.

What are catwalks used for?

Commercial facilities use catwalks for a wide range of reasons, the most typical being to connect two points on the warehouse or plant floor without disrupting the broader workflow. This can also greatly improve an organization’s safety posture, as catwalks are able to channel workers away from dangerous machinery, substances, lift trucks, or other potentially unsafe operations.

Catwalk systems can also allow overhead access to tanks, hoppers, machinery and other large installations. Oftentimes, it can be challenging to service and adjust oversized equipment using ground-based means such as aerial lifts. Catwalk systems can be stationed so that employees can freely access equipment for routine service tasks.

Warehouse catwalks are often used in conjunction with mezzanines to enable access to overhead work and storage spaces. Mezzanine and catwalk combinations can take advantage of the vertical area in a warehouse, greatly improving space utilization and efficiency.

Catwalk systems come in a wide array of types, so you can select one that meets your specific needs. If you're not sure what type of catwalk would work best for your operation, contact Raymond West for advice.

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 readily customized to fit the specific needs of your business. This makes them an ideal solution for small businesses with big growth plans.

Additionally, industrial catwalks provide safe and easy accessibility to all areas of your warehouse. This is especially helpful in operations where installed fixtures must be serviced frequently or where there is a lot of ground traffic. Essentially, catwalk systems make more of your warehouse accessible while improving safety.

How are industrial catwalks installed?

Factory built catwalk systems typically come in segments that can be readily assembled onsite. Walkways, supports, stairs and rails can all be bolted together fairly easily. Catwalk installation can be done by your own team or outside contractors like Raymond West.

Made-to-order catwalk systems are a more involved process. After an initial site survey, system design, fabrication and installation can take several weeks.

Are industrial and warehouse catwalks safe?

Without question, catwalks are safe. They are outfitted with stairs and safety rails, and their heavy steel architecture is nearly impervious to minor accidents like light forklift impacts and other safety events.

In fact, catwalks can greatly improve the safety practices within your operation by removing workers from potentially dangerous activities. For warehouses with heavy forklift traffic, catwalks can route pedestrians away from lift trucks and prevent accidents.

For a handful of industrial tasks like smelting or chemical processing, catwalks can be essential equipment for separating people from potentially hazardous activities.

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 Raymond West today.

Raymond West's Santa Barbara County service area includes Buellton, Carpinteria, Goleta, Lompoc, Santa Barbara, Santa Maria and all surrounding areas.

Raymond West | Santa Barbara Material Handling Equipment Supplier

Santa Barbara County, CA
(805) 749-2777