Safety barrier and walkway systems with an eco-friendly twist
The manufacturing and industrial setting is changing. Given the global backing of climate change activism and a push by government bodies, all industries are considering their part. As the world finds new ways to shift into greener practices, some industries have found the transition more straightforward than others.
We'll look at the need for safety barriers and walkways in the industrial sector and how sustainability plays a part in modern practices.
Aluminium is one of the most sought-after materials for its sustainable attributes and durability.What is a safety barrier in industrial settings?
Large structures at industrial facilities, storage warehouses or in your local city require safety barriers to protect workers and service people. These are dangerous places where employees may be exposed to extreme weather conditions, carry heavy objects and work at staggering heights.
Safety barriers are built to ensure that, if someone does slip or get pushed toward the edge of a walkway, they will not fall to the ground below. These barriers are built to withstand higher impacts than the railing in a home so anyone can feel safe crossing an open area without the fear of falling.
With the importance of safety in workplaces and public spaces, Australian Standards have put forth four guiding principles for barrier manufacturers:
- AS/NZS 1657 - Fixed Platforms, walkways, stairways and ladders.
- NCC - National Construction Code.
- AS/NZS 1428 - Design for Access and Mobility.
Webforge MonowillsTM system adheres to all of these principles to ensure our customers never have to worry about the safety of their employees. We'll take a look at the function and purpose of the barrier before putting together a design that aligns with compliance laws and regulations.
What part does a steel walkway play for industrial workers?
In outdoor spaces, you never know what type of weather could roll through and disrupt a work day or make an area unsafe. Slippery walkways covered in rain or snow prevent pedestrians and workers from walking from point A to point B safely. However, with a grated walkway, this concern is mostly eliminated.
The rain or snow slips through the gaps in the platform so it doesn't build up or slowly run off. A walkway has more traction than a concrete platform.
In industrial settings, workers walk back and forth carrying heavy objects of various sizes. The grated pattern ensures that, if something is dropped, it doesn't fall through and injure someone below. Meanwhile, any dropped liquids seep seamlessly down to avoid slipping.
Similar to handrails, walkways are built from steel to ensure high load capacity, strength and corrosion resistance. They're easy to install and last longer than other materials like concrete or wood. This material longevity plays a major part in sustainability.
How sustainability plays a part
No matter what industry might need a safety barrier or a walkway, sustainability must be considered in the process. Metal is a highly sought-after and limited resource, so it's important to consider what will happen to the material once its use has reached its end.
Here are three reasons why steel is a sustainable solution for handrails and safety barriers.
Choosing durable materials that will last longer
Steel is inherently eco-friendly. Although it comes in many shapes, sizes and uses, steel properties ensure the material can withstand extreme weather conditions, heavy loads and frequent use. Not only should the space remain safe, but it also shouldn't need frequent maintenance or replacement — retaining resources and ensuring longevity. It's important to consider how a material will hold out in situations like a work site or a ski resort.
Using recycled materials
What some people might not know about steel is that it is recyclable. It can be melted down and reused without losing any of its core durability or structural integrity. No matter what condition the material is in, it can still be recycled and reused.
Low CO2 emissions and toxins
Producing steel materials has become more eco-friendly as well. Carbon byproducts are captured, cleaned and reused elsewhere to ensure nothing is left behind. Structural steel produces no toxic runoff, so if it's exposed to heat, it will not emit harsh fumes.
How Webforge implements green technology
We put sustainability first when we formulate a design for your next project. Whether reducing waste, choosing sustainable materials or boxing products for less weight and easy setup, Webforge ensures our facilities remain as waste-free as possible. For more information or to get started, contact Webforge today.