What are industrial catwalks?

Warehouse and industrial catwalks are a secure 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 serving as walkways for workers, and can be tailored to suit the specific needs of your facility.

Warehouse catwalks are engineered to avoid disrupting operations at ground level, and can be installed very quickly without the need for new construction. Additionally, industrial catwalks, paired with mezzanines are a highly effective way to maximize the utilization of space in your facility and increase your capacity without the considerable pain of new construction.

How Are Catwalks Used?

Commercial operations use catwalks for a wide range of purposes, the most common being to connect two points on the manufacturing or warehouse floor without inhibiting the broader workflow. As a secondary benefit, this may also enhance safety, since catwalks are able to channel workers away from hazardous equipment, substances, forklifts, or other potentially unsafe operations.

Catwalks can also allow elevated access to hoppers, tanks, machinery and other large installations. Generally, it can be challenging to maintain and adjust large equipment using ground-based means such as aerial lifts. Catwalk systems can be positioned so that workers can freely access equipment for routine maintenance functions.

Catwalks are often used in combination with mezzanine systems to facilitate access to overhead work and storage areas. These types of configurations can make use of the vertical area in a warehouse, significantly enhancing space utilization and efficiency.

Catwalks are available in a wide array of types, so you can find 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 benefits to putting catwalks to use in your building. For starters, they can be quickly and easily customized to suit the specific needs of your business. This they are an ideal solution for a small business with anticipation of growth.

In addition, catwalks enable safe and easy access to all areas of your building. This is particularly helpful in operations where equipment must be serviced frequently or where there is a lot of floor traffic. Ultimately, catwalk systems make more of your warehouse accessible while improving safety.

How are industrial catwalks installed?

Factory built catwalks typically come in segments that can be easily assembled onsite. Supports, walkways, rails and stairs can all be put together relatively easily. Catwalk installation can be done by your employees or warehouse experts like Raymond West.

Customized catwalks take a bit more effort and time. After an initial site analysis, system design, 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 forklift impacts and other safety incidents.

In fact, catwalk systems can greatly improve the safety profile within your operation by removing employees from potentially dangerous activities. For warehouses with heavy lift truck traffic, catwalks can keep pedestrians away from lift trucks and reduce accidents.

For some industrial tasks like smelting or chemical processing, catwalks can be essential 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 Raymond West today.

Raymond's Portland service operation includes all of Western Oregon and Southwest Washington, including Portland, Beaverton, Tigard, Hillsboro, Forest Grove, Sherwood, Tualatin, Wilsonville, Oregon City, Gladstone, Clackamas, Milwaukie, Happy Valley, Gresham, Troutdale, Woodburn, Salem, Vancouver, Ridgefield, Longview, Kelso and surrounding areas.

Raymond West | Portland Material Handling Equipment Supplier

3148 NE 181st Ave
Portland, OR 97230
(800) 675-2500