What are industrial catwalks?

Industrial catwalks are a safe and practical way for employees to access overhead areas in a warehouse or plant. They provide an easy means of accessing equipment as well as acting as walkways for employees, and can be customized to fit the individual requirements of your facility.

Warehouse catwalk systems are engineered to avoid disrupting operations at ground level, and can be installed overnight without the need for new construction. Additionally, industrial catwalks, paired with mezzanines are a highly effective way to take advantage of the vertical space in your facility and augment your capacity without the considerable pain of new construction.

What are catwalks used for?

Industrial operations use catwalk systems for a variety of purposes, the most common being to link two points on the warehouse or plant floor without inhibiting the wider workflow. This can also greatly improve safety, since catwalks are able to channel employees away from hazardous machinery, chemicals, forklifts, or other potentially unsafe operations.

Catwalks can also facilitate elevated access to hoppers, tanks, machinery and other large installations. Generally, it can be difficult to service and adjust oversized equipment using ground-based means like aerial lifts. Catwalk systems can be situated so that employees can readily access equipment for routine service activities.

Catwalks are often used in combination with mezzanine systems to enable access to elevated storage and work areas. Mezzanine and catwalk combinations can take advantage of the vertical area in a building, significantly improving space utilization and efficiency.

Catwalks come in a broad array of styles, so you can choose one that meets your specific demands. If you're having a hard time choosing the right catwalk 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 quickly and easily customized to fit the specific needs of your operation. This they are a perfect solution for small businesses with anticipation of growth.

Additionally, industrial catwalks enable safe and convenient access to all areas of your building. This is especially helpful in operations where equipment must be regularly accessed or where there is a lot of ground traffic. Essentially, catwalk systems offer better access to more of your facility while also keeping it safe.

How are industrial catwalks installed?

Prefabricated catwalk systems generally ship in sections that can be easily assembled at your location. Walkways, supports, stairs and rails can all be put together relatively easily. Catwalk installation can be done by your employees or outside contractors like Raymond West.

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

Are industrial and warehouse catwalks safe?

Without question, catwalks are safe. They are outfitted with safety rails and stairs, and their sturdy steel construction is nearly impervious to minor mishaps like moderate lift truck impacts and other safety events.

In fact, catwalks can greatly improve the safety profile within your facility by removing employees from potentially risky activities. For facilities with heavy lift truck traffic, catwalk systems can keep pedestrians away from lift trucks and reduce 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 Ontario, California facility serves parts of Los Angeles County and San Bernardino County, including Ontario, Fontana, Rancho Cucamonga, Upland, La Verne, San Dimas, Covina, West Covina, Pomona, Diamond Bar, Rowland Heights, Chino, Norco, Eastvale, Corona, Jurupa Valley, San Bernardino, Rialto and all surrounding areas.

Raymond West | Ontario California Material Handling Equipment Supplier

4602 E Brickell St
Ontario, CA 91761
(909) 930-9399