In busy warehouses and plant rooms, hazards are everywhere. Pipework snakes overhead, ducting criss-crosses the ceiling, and machinery occupies every available space. Your maintenance crews need to navigate around these hazards every day, so it’s vital that they can do so safely and efficiently.
This is where modular access systems truly excel, helping to safeguard your team and keep your operations running smoothly. In this blog, we’ll explore what modular systems are, how they work, and why they’re quickly becoming the go-to choice for accessing challenging areas at height.
What is a modular access system?
A modular access system is a highly adaptable, pre-engineered solution that is designed to provide safe access around difficult areas such as plant equipment, machinery, ducting, and rooftop installations. Unlike traditional fabricated structures, modular access systems are built using standardised components such as modular stairs, handrails, platforms, and frames that can be easily configured and adjusted to meet your exact requirements.
In busy warehouses and plant rooms, hazards are everywhere. Pipework snakes overhead, ducting criss-crosses the ceiling, and machinery occupies every available space. Your maintenance crews need to navigate around these hazards every day, so it’s vital that they can do so safely and efficiently.
This is where modular access systems truly excel, helping to safeguard your team and keep your operations running smoothly. In this blog, we’ll explore what modular systems are, how they work, and why they’re quickly becoming the go-to choice for accessing challenging areas at height.
What is a modular access system?
A modular access system is a highly adaptable, pre-engineered solution that is designed to provide safe access around difficult areas such as plant equipment, machinery, ducting, and rooftop installations. Unlike traditional fabricated structures, modular access systems are built using standardised components such as modular stairs, handrails, platforms, and frames that can be easily configured and adjusted to meet your exact requirements.
Common applications of modular access systems
Modular systems are incredibly versatile, making them suitable for use in a wide range of industries, including:
- Ensuring safe navigation over cabling and cooling units in data centres
- Providing safe access across conveyor belts and racking in warehouses and distribution centres
- Bridging pipework, tanks, and machinery in manufacturing plants
- Offering safe passage over fragile surfaces and service equipment on rooftops
When you invest in a modular access system, you can rest assured that you’re equipping your site with a robust solution that will stand the test of time and provide ongoing protection for your workforce.
Why choose a modular access system?
Adaptability to complex layouts
Many sites are filled with obstacles like pipework, HVAC units, conveyors, and service ducts that make access challenging. Modular access systems are specifically designed around your unique site obstructions, ensuring that your maintenance teams can work safely without creating unnecessary hazards.
Faster installation, less downtime
The longer a project takes on site, the more it can interrupt your normal operations. Traditional steel fabrications can take weeks to design, manufacture, and install. Because they use prefabricated components that fit together seamlessly, modular systems are much quicker to install – ensuring your project runs smoothly with minimal downtime.
Long-term flexibility
As your facilities evolve, you may find that your access needs change. A permanent welded solution might not be able to adapt to any changes in your layout or upgrades to your equipment. On the other hand, modular systems can be reconfigured, extended, or even relocated if needed, so you don’t need to purchase a new one if your needs change.
Compliance and safety assurance
Falls from height remain one of the leading causes of workplace injuries. By investing in modular access systems, you can ensure that your teams are fully protected when working from height. Our systems comply with BS EN ISO 14122-3:2016, supporting safe access for any inspection, maintenance, and repair work that your staff need to carry out.
Cost-effective
While the upfront cost might seem high, modular platforms can actually help you save money over time. They’re quick to install, which lowers your labour expenses and minimises costly downtime on site. And because they can be easily reconfigured or expanded, you don’t need to fork out on redesign and fabrication work every time your layout changes or new equipment is added.
Katt Safety’s industry-leading modular access systems
We offer a wide range of modular access systems that are specifically tailored to meet your exact requirements. Our range includes:
- Modular stairs for providing safe and ergonomic access to different levels
- Step overs for safely crossing over obstacles such as pipework, ducting, or conveyors
- Adjustable access platforms for inspections, maintenance, and service tasks
- Walkways and structures for creating secure routes across complex or elevated areas
All our systems are manufactured from the highest grade of aluminium, making them exceptionally lightweight and durable, while also being fully resistant to corrosion. Supplied in kit form, they’re quick and easy to assemble on site without the need for welding or heavy lifting equipment. And thanks to their reusable components, our systems can be reconfigured or relocated as your site evolves, making them an excellent long-term investment.
Contact us to discuss your safety requirements and we’ll help you choose the right solution for your site.
