Aluminium roof walkways, such as Kee Walk®, offer substantial benefits to both building owners and the personnel tasked with maintenance duties at height. Ensuring safety is paramount when accessing roofs, and these systems provide a safe access route that adheres to all roof access requirements
Working on roofs presents various hazards, notably the risk of falls from open edges and injuries from fragile surfaces like skylights.
Aluminium roof walkways help mitigate these risks by demarcating safe pathways, effectively steering personnel away from potential dangers. In scenarios where proximity to hazards is unavoidable, Kee Walk® systems can be integrated with additional safety measures such as KeeGuard for edge protection and Kee Cover or Kee Dome for skylight protection
By clearly defining walking paths, aluminium roof walkways protect the roof surface from damage caused by foot traffic. Designed to accommodate modern roof types including trapezoidal profile composite, built-up, and standing seam metal roofs, Kee Walk® systems can be configured for flat, barrel, and sloping roofs, enhancing accessibility across various roof configurations from 0 to 35 degrees.
The choice of aluminium not only ensures that Kee Walk® systems are lightweight, approximately one third the weight of steel, but also strong enough to support significant loads without risking roof integrity. This combination of lightness and strength helps prevent the catastrophic consequences of roof overloading.
Exposed to the elements, aluminium roof walkways must withstand conditions like rain, sleet, and snow. Aluminium’s natural corrosion resistance, enhanced by its ability to form a protective oxide layer, ensures that Kee Walk® systems remain durable and maintenance-free, resisting rust and degradation over time.
On larger buildings with many potential hazards, roof walkways can span hundreds of metres. This would present a significant capital outlay for anyone investing in an aluminium roof walkway, so having one that will last and stand the test of time is imperative. Quite often the client specification will state a minimum of 20 years and we have no hesitation in committing to this timescale. When our walkways are correctly and regularly maintained, they can last for a very long time and we’ve seen that aluminium won’t rust, which also helps with this longevity.
Not all walkways are exposed; some, like those installed in roof voids, are crucial for accessing essential infrastructure hidden above false ceilings. Here, the attributes of aluminium — particularly its lightness and strength — are just as beneficial, ensuring that safe access routes are maintained without imposing undue load on the structure.
Kee Walk® aluminium roof walkways are an essential component for safe and efficient rooftop access, designed to meet stringent safety standards and adapt to a wide range of roof configurations. For those looking to install or upgrade roof walkways, Kee Walk® offers a solution that combines durability, safety, and compliance with aesthetic flexibility.
Get in touch with Planet Platforms to discuss how Kee Walk® can meet your rooftop access needs. Call us today at 0800 0854 161 or fill out our contact form below and we’ll be back in touch with you.
Q1: What are the key benefits of installing an aluminium roof walkway?
A1: Aluminium roof walkways like Kee Walk® provide several benefits including enhanced safety through fall protection and a non-slip walking surface, durability due to corrosion resistance, and compatibility with various roof configurations including standing seam roofs. These systems form a crucial part of work at height safety strategies by offering a stable and secure path for maintenance and inspection tasks.
Q2: How does Kee Walk® ensure safety for personnel working at height?
A2: Kee Walk® systems are designed with safety as a priority. They feature an anti-slip walking surface that minimises slips and falls, integral fall protection mechanisms, and robust aluminium construction that provides a secure access system across the roof. This comprehensive approach ensures that all roof access requirements are met, safeguarding personnel working in elevated and potentially hazardous conditions.
Q3: Can Kee Walk® be used on any type of roof?
A3: Yes, Kee Walk® is a versatile walkway system that can be tailored to fit a wide range of roof configurations, including flat, pitched, and standing seam roofs. Its modular design allows for adjustments to accommodate different roof pitches and complexities, making it a full access system ideal for virtually any roofing structure.
Q4: What makes Kee Walk® compatible with standing seam roofs?
A4: Kee Walk® is specifically engineered to be compatible with standing seam roofs without compromising the integrity of the roof. The system includes special fittings that securely attach to the seams without piercing the roof, preserving its waterproofing and structural integrity while providing reliable and safe roof access.
Q5: What are the key features of Kee Walk® systems?
A5: The key features of Kee Walk® include its lightweight yet durable aluminium construction, anti-slip walking surface, modularity for easy installation and adaptation, and compatibility with a variety of roof types including standing seam roofs. Additionally, the system is designed to meet stringent safety standards required for work at height, offering not just access but also fall protection.
Q6: How is Kee Walk® installed on different roof types?
A6: Kee Walk® is a modular walkway system that can be easily configured to match specific roof configurations. For standing seam roofs, it utilises clamp-on attachments that do not penetrate the roof surface. For other types such as flat or pitched roofs, it can incorporate steps or traverses to ensure a level access system across slopes. The system’s flexibility and comprehensive fitting options make it suitable for a full access system on virtually any roof.
