Industrial workers navigate complex environments, and every element, from machinery to walkways, plays a critical role in ensuring their well-being. Catwalks, elevated walkways used to access equipment and perform maintenance tasks, are a vital component in many facilities. Traditional catwalk grating materials like steel can present significant challenges.
Steel catwalks are susceptible to corrosion, especially when exposed to harsh chemicals, moisture, and extreme temperatures, increasing the risk of accidents. As mentioned by OSHA here, a tragic incident occurred when an employee fell 35 feet due to a corroded catwalk due to structural weakening. This highlights the importance of adhering to safety standards such as 29 CFR 1917.111(d) and 29 CFR 1917.112(b)(1) for maintaining safe working conditions. Additionally, steel catwalks can be heavy and cumbersome to install, adding to project costs and timelines.
Fortunately, there's a superior alternative: FRP (fiberglass reinforced plastic) catwalk grating. Comprised of strong fiberglass strands embedded in a durable resin matrix, FRP grating can be a better choice for catwalks in many different environments.
According to TJ Looper, Regional Sales Manager at Fibergrate, high growth industries including the data center sector, are looking for ways to build that put less strain on workers. “We’re starting to see FRP catwalk grating used in data center designs because of the benefits in lightweight installations. There have been too many incidents of injuries on the job site from workers installing heavy products. There’s a benefit to having a material that can be handled safely by two people instead of requiring a crane or other heavy equipment to move.”
Choosing the appropriate catwalk grating involves careful consideration of several factors. The required load-bearing capacity of the catwalk must be determined based on anticipated traffic and equipment. Will the catwalk be used for pedestrian traffic only, or will it need to support heavy machinery or equipment? Environmental conditions, such as exposure to chemicals, moisture, and temperature extremes, must also be evaluated.
The catwalk grating material should be able to withstand these conditions without degradation. Safety factors such as anti-slip coatings, electrical conductivity, and the need for flame retardant properties should also be considered. Finally, the desired aesthetic appearance of the catwalk, such as color and finish options, should be taken into account during the selection process.
To better understand the differences between the two primary types of FRP grating that can be used for catwalks, refer to our infographic on molded vs. pultruded grating infographic.
FRP catwalk grating offers several key advantages over traditional materials:
Within the commercial sector, FRP grating finds application in warehouses, distribution centers, and data centers, providing safe and durable access to equipment and elevated work areas.
In infrastructure projects, FRP grating plays a vital role in bridges, piers, and offshore platforms. Its corrosion resistance and lightweight properties make it an ideal choice for these demanding environments, where exposure to saltwater, harsh weather conditions, and high winds is prevalent.
The Glenmore Water Treatment Plant, serving the City of Calgary, required upgrades to address safety hazards and improve operational efficiency. Existing steel walkways within the plant had become rusty and slippery, posing a significant risk to workers. To mitigate these issues, the City of Calgary opted for Fibergrate's FRP grating and structural shapes. This decision was driven by the need for a solution that would not only enhance worker safety but also provide long-term durability and minimize maintenance costs. As one project manager aptly stated, "The City of Calgary chose to upgrade its water treatment facility with a product that would protect against costly corrosion and provide a slip resistant surface."
The Bowery Bay Wastewater Treatment Plant in Astoria, New York, presented unique challenges due to its coastal location and the corrosive environment within the facility. To address these challenges, Fibergrate provided a comprehensive solution utilizing FRP walkways and platforms.
Fibergrate's FRP solutions, including molded grating and structural shapes, were specifically chosen for their exceptional durability and corrosion resistance. This robust system provides a safe and reliable working environment for plant personnel while effectively mitigating the effects of the challenging coastal environment.
Fibergrate is a leading manufacturer of high-quality FRP grating solutions for a wide range of applications. In addition to FRP components and custom projects, we offer expert technical support and can assist with design, engineering, and installation considerations.
Contact Fibergrate today to learn more about our FRP grating solutions and discover how we can help you enhance safety and efficiency in your facility.
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