Why is an “omni-directional” tread safer than traditional diamond plate?
Diamond plate can be slippery when wet or dusty. Our patented treads provide 360-degree grip: ensuring the worker’s foot remains secure regardless of the angle of approach or weather conditions.
Can these walkways support the weight of heavy HVAC components?
Standard walkways are rated for personnel. If you intend to use them for transporting heavy equipment: a Qualified Person must verify the structural load capacity of the roof deck and the walkway frame.
What are the hazards of walking directly on a fragile roof surface?
Beyond the risk of falling through: foot traffic causes microscopic tears in the membrane that lead to leaks. A walkway system is an investment in both worker safety and the longevity of the building’s infrastructure.
How do environmental factors like thermal expansion impact long walkway runs?
Metal walkways expand and contract. Our modular connectors are designed to absorb this movement: preventing the system from buckling or putting stress on the roof anchors during extreme temperature swings.
What happens if the walkway becomes covered in ice or snow?
Our walkways utilize a “grill-style” tread that allows snow and water to fall through rather than pooling. However: during heavy icing: a Competent Person must verify the surface remains slip-resistant before allowing access.
Who is qualified to determine the safest path for a rooftop walkway?
A Competent Person should perform a hazard assessment to identify the most direct route that avoids leading edges: skylights: and trip hazards. FLS provides satellite-based mapping to assist in this safety layout.
Can these walkways negotiate changes in roof level?
Absolutely. The system can be used in conjunction with our range of steps, platforms, and step-overs to provide a continuous, safe path of travel even when negotiating rooftop obstructions or elevation changes.
Are these systems compliant with both US and Canadian standards?
Yes, the system is designed and tested to exceed industry standards, including OSHA 1910.28(b)(13) and applicable ANSI requirements, ensuring implementation safety across North America.
What is the standard size for the walkway treads?
Our Rooftop Walkways utilize a non-slip tread constructed from glass-reinforced nylon attached to aluminum support beams, creating a surface designed for optimal traction and stability.
Can this system be retrofitted to an existing building?
The modular nature of FlexWalk makes it ideal for both new builds and retrofit projects. Because it uses lightweight components and requires no welding or specialized heavy machinery for installation, it can be deployed on existing rooftops with minimal disruption to building operations.
Is the guardrail required on both sides of the walkway?
This depends on the proximity to the fall hazard. If the walkway is located near a leading edge, guardrails are typically installed on one or both sides to meet OSHA 1910.28 requirements. FLS conducts a site survey to specify the exact configuration needed to guarantee full compliance for your specific site.
How does the system perform in extreme weather conditions?
The walkway utilizes glass-reinforced nylon treads that are UV-resistant and feature a high-traction surface to prevent slips in rain, snow, or ice. All structural fittings and guardrail tubes are hot-dip galvanized or made of aluminum to provide maximum corrosion resistance in industrial or coastal environments.
Does the installation of a walkway with guardrail require roof penetrations?
Our system is a non-penetrative solution. It utilizes specialized clamps and modular components that attach to the roof’s structural ribs or standing seams without drilling. This approach prevents moisture intrusion, leaks, and ensures your roof manufacturer’s warranty remains intact.
Can this system be installed on a sloped roof?
Yes, our FlexWalk system is designed for use on roof pitches up to 35 degrees. When the incline exceeds a certain threshold, we integrate specialized stair sections and leveling components to provide secure footing, as friction alone is insufficient on steeper slopes to maintain worker safety.
Why is a walkway with guardrail considered “preferred” in the hierarchy of fall protection?
In safety engineering, collective protection—solutions that protect everyone without requiring individual equipment—is always superior to personal fall arrest. By providing a physical barrier and a dedicated walking surface, you eliminate the risks associated with human error, improper harness fit, or equipment failure.
