Features of Heavy Duty GRIP STRUT

Cooper B-Line Heavy Duty GRIP STRUT planks and walkways feature an aggressive serrated surface that grips soles securely in all directions, providing maximum slip protection under practically all environmental conditions. It is ideally suited for all working surfaces where rain, snow, grease and mud create slippery or hazardous conditions.

The open diamond design lets liquids pass through to keep the grating clear and sheds slip-causing debris. Heavy Duty GRIP STRUT grating is designed especially for applications requiring greater load capacity or longer span ability.

Traditionally, bridge inspections are accomplished with "snooper" gantries, scaffolding and vehicle-mounted booms and cranes that can cause both traffic flow and safety problems, making the inspection process time-consuming and expensive. With Heavy Duty GRIP STRUT walkway systems, workers can safely access virtually every part of the bridge using strategically-placed planks equipped with side channels and handrails.

"The turned up pans (side channels) were something that definitely made the walkway seem safer," Frank said. "You would have to intentionally fall off of it. On the old walkway, you could rub the rust off as you walked and almost slip under the railings. You felt really unsafe."

Before safety grating walkways were specified as rooftop walkway systems, solid steel troughs covered the PVC piping that held the cables. But, a major problem with solid trough was that it collected extreme heat during sunny weather. Also, the solid steel surface of the troughs was smooth and slippery and was unsafe for maintenance personnel who had to walk on it. In contrast, GRIP STRUT features an aggressive surface that provides traction in almost every condition, while still protecting the cables and rooftop surface.

"We're really pleased with how it turned out. We affectionately call it the 'Cadillac of catwalks,'" Frank said. "You don't think about falling when you walk on the new system, with the double railings and toeboards. The main walkway is so wide it almost meets ADA guidelines!"