What are industrial catwalks?

Industrial catwalks are a safe and practical way for employees to access overhead areas in a warehouse or factory. They provide a convenient way of accessing equipment in addition to acting as walkways for workers, and can be tailored to suit the individual demands of your operation.

Industrial catwalk systems are designed to prevent disruption of activities on the floor, and can be assembled very quickly without the need for new construction. Catwalks coupled with mezzanines are a great way to maximize the utilization of space in your facility and augment your capacity without having to go through the expense and hassle of new construction.

How Are Catwalks Used?

Industrial facilities use catwalk systems for a wide range of purposes, the most typical being to link two points on the warehouse or plant floor without disrupting the broader workflow. As a secondary benefit, this may also enhance safety, since catwalks can route workers away from hazardous machinery, chemicals, forklifts, or other potentially unsafe activities.

Catwalks can also allow elevated access to hoppers, tanks, machinery and other large installations. Generally, it can be challenging to service and adjust oversized equipment using ground-based means like scissor lifts. Catwalk systems can be stationed so that employees can freely access equipment for routine service tasks.

Warehouse catwalks are frequently used in combination with mezzanine systems to facilitate access to overhead work and storage spaces. These types of configurations can make use of the cubic area in a warehouse, greatly improving space utilization and efficiency.

Catwalk systems come in a broad range 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 benefits to using industrial catwalks in your facility. For one, they can be quickly and easily adapted to suit the specific needs of your operation. This they are a perfect solution for a small business with anticipation of growth.

Additionally, catwalks allow safe and convenient access to all areas of your warehouse. This is especially helpful in facilities where equipment must be regularly accessed or where there is a lot of floor traffic. Essentially, catwalk systems offer better access to more of your facility while improving safety.

How are industrial catwalks installed?

Factory built catwalks typically come in components that can be readily assembled onsite. Walkways, supports, stairs and rails can all be put together relatively easily. Catwalk installation can be done by your own team or outside contractors like Raymond West.

Custom designed catwalk systems are a more involved process. After an initial site analysis, system design, fabrication and installation can take a few weeks.

Are industrial and warehouse catwalks safe?

Catwalks are quite safe. They come equipped with safety rails and stairs, and their sturdy steel architecture can easily withstand mishaps like light lift truck impacts and other safety events.

As a matter of fact, catwalks can greatly improve the safety practices within your facility by separating workers from potentially dangerous activities. For warehouses with heavy forklift traffic, catwalks can route pedestrians away from lift trucks and reduce 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 San Diego facility serves all of San Diego County, including Carlsbad, Chula Vista, Downtown, El Cajon, Escondido, Fenton Carroll Canyon, Grantville, Kearney Mesa, Levanto, Morena, National City, Oceanside, Otay, Otay Mesa, Poway, San Marcos, Santee, Sorrento Mesa, Spring Valley, Vista and all surrounding areas.

Raymond West | San Diego Material Handling Equipment Supplier

8221 Arjons Dr # B2
San Diego, CA 92126
(858) 679-1800