Factors to Consider Before Installing Crossover Stairs

April 29, 2021 12:37 pm

According to OSHA, slips, trips and falls are the second most common cause of accidental deaths in the workplace. It is only preceded by motor vehicle related accidents. As a result, it makes sense to install safe and reliable Conveyor Crossover Stairs in manufacturing facilities and warehouses as a means of mitigating this hazard.

Crossover installations and Custom Swing Safety Gates are widely used in a wide range of industries and settings. They also come in an even wider range of configurations and materials.

Understanding Factory Crossover Stairs
In this brief overview we will strive to provide readers with a better general understanding of considerations and factors around crossover stairs. This will hopefully provide sufficient knowledge to properly choose and oversee the installation of this safety feature.

The questions that need to be asked in this regard, not necessarily in this order, are:

1. What is the elevation level the crossover stairs need to reach?
   The elevation level of the crossover is a direct result of its purpose and the manner in which it will be used. If it is only intended to laterally cross over a piece of machinery such as a conveyor belt, then it should possess a minimum height and clearance needed to reach over it.
   If employees using the crossover need to reach a certain height and access features and mechanisms above, it may require more. In this instance, compound platforms may need to be used.
2. How far or across what distance does the platform need to span?
   The distance a Factory Crossover Stairs setup needs to span over also has a direct effect on its construction and cost. An appropriate amount of modular platforms and supports can be calculated based on this.
3. Will it require steps or can it (should it?) accommodate a ladder?
   This is self explanatory but in essence it depends on whether there’s room for a staircase and whether one is required. A ladder is more economical but will prevent moving items and tools up to a certain point.
4. Will the system or its segments need handrails or safety gates?
   Safety features are important where a fall is a serious risk. This includes handrails and of course Custom Swing Safety Gates where needed. When a platform ends with a ladder it’s a potential fall, to give one example.
5. Do the Conveyor Crossover Stairs need to be mobile or removable?
   Some facilities that need Factory Crossover Stairs also have mobility requirements for such components for various reasons. Consulting OSHA codes is the surest way to ascertain if this is the case.

Most facilities can be outfitted using standard prefabricated segments assembled to produce a custom solution. However, some facilities due to their specific layouts may require custom work and more careful planning.

Which is why this guide is only a very brief introduction to Conveyor Crossover Stairs. For more information and professional guidance, please contact us (wpss.com) today.

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