What are industrial catwalks?

Industrial catwalk systems are a secure and practical way for workers to access overhead areas in a factory or warehouse. They provide a convenient way of accessing equipment as well as serving as walkways for workers, and can be made-to-order to fit the individual demands of your facility.

Industrial catwalks are engineered to prevent disruption of operations at ground level, and can be installed overnight without the need for new construction. Catwalks paired with mezzanines are a smart way to take advantage of the vertical space in your facility 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 typical being to connect two points on the manufacturing or warehouse floor without inhibiting the broader workflow. This can also greatly enhance safety, as catwalks are able to channel employees away from hazardous machinery, chemicals, lift trucks, or other potentially unsafe operations.

Catwalk systems can also provide overhead access to hoppers, tanks, machinery and other large installations. Generally, it can be difficult to maintain and adjust oversized equipment using floor level options such as scissor lifts. Catwalks can be stationed so that workers can easily access equipment for regular maintenance activities.

Catwalks are frequently 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, significantly enhancing space utilization and efficiency.

Catwalks are available in a wide range of styles, so you can find one that meets your specific demands. If you're not sure what type of catwalk would work best for your operation, contact Raymond West for consultation.

What are the benefits of using industrial catwalks?

There are numerous advantages to putting catwalks to use in your facility. For one, they can be freely customized to suit the specific needs of your business. This makes them an ideal solution for small businesses with big growth plans.

In addition, catwalks provide safe and convenient accessibility to all parts of your building. This is particularly helpful in facilities where installed fixtures must be serviced frequently or where there is a lot of ground activity. Essentially, industrial catwalks offer better access to more of your facility while also keeping it safe.

How are industrial catwalks installed?

Prefabricated catwalk systems typically ship in components that can be easily assembled at your location. Walkways, supports, rails and stairs can all be put together relatively easily. Catwalk assembly can be completed by your own team or outside contractors like Raymond West.

Made-to-order catwalks are a more involved process. After a preliminary site survey, engineering, fabrication and installation can take several weeks.

Are industrial and warehouse catwalks safe?

Without question, catwalks are safe. They come equipped with stairs and safety rails, and their heavy steel construction can easily withstand mishaps like moderate forklift impacts and other safety events.

As a matter of fact, catwalks can significantly improve the safety profile within your facility by separating workers from potentially risky activities. For warehouses with heavy forklift traffic, catwalk systems can route pedestrians away from lift trucks and prevent accidents.

For a handful of industrial tasks 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 Raymond West today.

Raymond West's Spokane branch services Spokane, Airway Heights, Spokane Valley, Liberty Lake, Post Falls, Hayden, Rathdrum, Coeur d'Alene, Medical Lake, Cheney, Pullman, Moscow, Moses Lake, Yakima, Wenatchee, Lewiston, Clarkston, Kennewick, Pasco, Richland, Walla Walla and all surrounding areas.

Raymond West | Spokane Material Handling Equipment Supplier

11002 E Montgomery Dr #100
Spokane, WA 99206
(509) 728-6000