Rooftop-based equipment such as solar panels or antennas may require regular maintenance. These tasks will be safer for both you and your workers if you have a rooftop walkway system. Rooftop walkways are compliant with fall protection requirements, which can prevent workplace injuries or fatalities. Learn more about rooftop walkways and which ones are best for you.
Safety
A rooftop walkway system installed in an office building can have many benefits. These walkways can reduce accidents at work and protect building maintenance personnel. Rooftops are fragile substrates, and they have a limited weight that makes them vulnerable to damage. Rooftop walkways must be lightweight and resist UV exposure. To reduce the chance of falls and slips, walkways can be non-slip.
Make sure you choose a walkway with a grille that permits drainage and doesn’t accumulate water. Guardrails should be added to walkways on either one or both sides. Rails protect against falls in the areas where the walkway meets the valley or parapet.
Durability
Roof walkway systems must meet these requirements. This includes prefabricated accessories for roofing or roof access. These requirements include the ability of the roof walkway system to support a 1.5KN load per 100mm sq. of span, and a 15mm deviation at a maximum deflection limit.
It is important to consider the thickness of rooftop walkway systems from the beginning. Protect the surface from water buildup by using a waterproofing membrane. Protecting the roof and walkway from water is possible with a drainage layer or protection mat. Another important consideration is the slope of rooftop walkways towards roof drains. A removable terrace grill can direct water downwards and keep the rooftop walkway in good condition.
Cost
A rooftop walkway system may require a minimum investment of $3,200 to $3.520. The system will also need a concrete pad, which can be as low as $37 per square foot. The cost of the system, once the concrete pad has been installed, will be between three and five dollars per square foot. The final cost of the system will vary depending on which type you choose. It could be as high as $10 per square foot.
Although the cost per square meter is quite affordable, modifications will be required to accommodate mechanical systems. In areas that require frequent maintenance, a rooftop walkway system will be required. The walkway can be damaged by pedestrian foot traffic, in addition to falling hazards.
Installation
A walkway is a great way to increase safety on your rooftop. This is easy with a rooftop walkway system. This walkway provides a safe, level, and secure walking surface that is not at risk of falling. You can have it installed by either a professional or homeowner who is familiar with building safety regulations and height safety. These are some tips for installing a rooftop walkway:
Follow the load-bearing requirements to ensure safety for the walkway system. This standard is applicable to roof access systems and prefabricated accessories. The walkway must be able to withstand 1.5KN per square meter of load. The walkway must not be deflected more than 15mm in any direction. The walkway should be slip-resistant, and have a defined path and uniform pedestrian load.
