Have you ever wondered how to optimize your warehouse space without compromising on safety? In crowded warehouses, operations can become a mess. Warehouse catwalks provide a quick solution, as they can provide secure access to high storage areas, improve inventory management, and make overall workflow more efficient. In this article, we will cover what catwalks are, some benefits and design considerations, and more.
What is a Catwalk?
A catwalk is an elevated walkway designed to provide access to areas that are otherwise difficult to reach. Commonly found in warehouses, these mezzanine structures allow workers to move safely and quickly between different areas of a building. In warehouses, catwalks are often used to access storage locations, perform maintenance tasks on industrial equipment more easily, and oversee operations from a higher point of view.
What are the Benefits of Using Warehouse Catwalks?
In a warehouse, catwalks can provide a wide variety of advantages. Here are a few of the biggest benefits they can offer.
Space Optimization
Catwalks, like other mezzanine structures, simply add more room. They increase access to vertical space, which can allow businesses to add higher storage racks. This alone can significantly impact inventory capacity.
Improved Worker Safety
Further, catwalks can provide safe passageways for workers. By installing catwalks, certain risks, such as those associated with ladders, can be reduced, especially in an already crowded space.
Similarly, mezzanine catwalks can allow supervisors and managers to have an overview of the entire warehouse, which helps them quickly identify and address issues in operations.
More Efficient Workflow
Since catwalks make access to inventory and machinery much easier, less time is spent on certain activities, like storage retrieval or equipment maintenance. Catwalk mezzanines can supply different access points for workers, which can speed up your operations.
Customizability
Finally, catwalks can be customized to meet the needs of any warehouse. Sizes, materials, and layouts can all be configured to fit operational requirements.
Design Considerations for Warehouse Catwalks
When planning and installing a warehouse catwalk, several factors must be considered to ensure they work correctly.
Load-Bearing Capacity
The catwalk must support the weight of the workers and any equipment or materials they may carry (this is called the live load).
Compliance with Safety Regulations (OSHA, ANSI)
Though catwalks improve safety, they must meet all relevant safety standards set by OSHA and ANSI to protect workers and avoid legal issues.
Worker Accessibility
The design should facilitate easy and comfortable movement for workers, and if possible, minimize strain and fatigue.
Integration with Existing Warehouse Infrastructure
The catwalk should complement the existing layout and workflow of the warehouse and improve overall efficiency without causing disruptions.
The Bottom Line
Catwalks make a valuable addition to any warehouse or industrial facility. As we mentioned, they offer a whole host of benefits, including improved space optimization, improved worker safety, and operational efficiency. Most businesses do not make efficient use of their vertical spaces, so the ones who do can significantly improve their industrial spaces.
Are you ready to upgrade your warehouse with a custom catwalk system? Contact Allied Modular today to get a free quote and to find out how we can help you make the most of your space.
