how to select fiberglass grating walkways
Introduction
In many industrial facilities, fiberglass grating walkways are more than just flooring—they are critical to workplace safety and efficiency. From chemical plants and marine platforms to rooftop access routes, the right choice of grating can reduce accidents, lower maintenance costs, and extend service life.
So, how to select fiberglass grating walkways that truly fit your project? Let’s break it down.
Why Choosing the Right Fiberglass Grating Walkway Matters
A poorly chosen walkway can lead to accidents, unexpected repairs, or costly replacements. On the other hand, the right type of fiberglass grating ensures:
Safety – Slip resistance and fire-retardant properties help protect workers.
Durability – Strong resistance against corrosion, chemicals, and weather.
Cost-effectiveness – Lower long-term maintenance and replacement costs.
Compliance – Meeting industrial safety standards reduces risks and liabilities.
👉 For more details, you can check the 【OSHA standards for walking-working surfaces】
Key Factors When Selecting Fiberglass Grating Walkways
1. Load Capacity
Think about who and what will be using the walkway.
Light Duty: Pedestrian access in maintenance areas.
Medium Duty: Workers plus light equipment or carts.
Heavy Duty: Industrial settings where machinery may roll across.
In our projects, we often recommend 38mm thick panels for chemical plants, while 25mm can be sufficient for rooftop access paths.
2. Grating Surface Type
Different surfaces offer different levels of slip resistance:
Concave surface – good for general walking areas.
Gritted surface – excellent anti-slip properties, often used in oil & gas industries.
Smooth surface – easier cleaning, but less slip-resistant.
If safety in wet or oily conditions is a concern, a gritted surface is usually the safest option.
3. Resin Type & Material Standards
The choice of resin directly impacts performance:
Orthophthalic – economical, suitable for general use.
Isophthalic – better chemical resistance, common in industrial plants.
Vinyl Ester – high resistance to aggressive chemicals and high temperatures.
When we worked on marine projects in Southeast Asia, Vinyl Ester resin was the go-to choice due to its excellent corrosion resistance against saltwater.
4. Panel Size & Thickness
Standard Panels: 1220×3660mm or 1000×3000mm.
Custom Sizes: Can be cut to fit tight spaces or unique layouts.
Thickness: 25mm, 30mm, 38mm depending on load requirements.
A safe practice is to consult engineers about span vs. load tables before finalizing.
5. Installation & Maintenance
Fiberglass gratings are easy to install using stainless clips and require minimal maintenance. Still, choosing the right fixing system ensures long-term stability. For example, in coastal climates, we recommend stainless steel fasteners to prevent rust issues.
Case Study: A Chemical Plant in Vietnam
In Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, we worked with Mr. Tran Nguyen, Operations Manager at Saigon Chemical Solutions Co., Ltd. The plant needed safe walkways for their pipe gallery, where employees frequently performed inspections.
Procurement Process
Initial Inquiry – Mr. Tran reached out after comparing several suppliers.
Technical Consultation – Our team explained the pros and cons of resin options.
Sample Testing – He received gritted surface samples for evaluation.
Order Confirmation – He chose 38mm Vinyl Ester grating, customized to 1000×4000mm panels.
Installation & Feedback
The gratings were installed in under two weeks. After three months of use, Mr. Tran shared:
“Henry Fiberglass provided excellent support from selection to delivery. Their grating walkways have greatly improved safety in our facility. Our workers feel more secure, and maintenance costs have dropped.”
This project became a benchmark for similar facilities in the region, proving how crucial proper selection is.
Our Customization Capability
At Henry Fiberglass, we understand that every project is different. We provide:
Customized sizes, thickness, and colors.
Technical support in selecting the right resin type.
Fast international delivery for industrial projects.
Whether you need solutions for chemical plants, marine platforms, or public facilities, we help ensure your walkway is safe, durable, and cost-effective.
FAQ
Q: What thickness of fiberglass grating is best for walkways?
A: For pedestrian traffic, 25mm–30mm is common. For heavy-duty industrial settings, 38mm is recommended.
Q: How does fiberglass grating compare with steel grating walkways?
A: Fiberglass is lighter, corrosion-resistant, and safer in wet conditions. Steel, while strong, requires frequent maintenance and is prone to rust.
Q: Can fiberglass grating walkways be used outdoors?
A: Yes. With UV inhibitors and the right resin, fiberglass gratings perform excellently in extreme weather.
Conclusion
Selecting the right fiberglass grating walkway is not just a technical decision—it directly impacts safety, durability, and long-term costs. By considering load, surface type, resin, size, and installation, you can make an informed choice.
If you’re planning your next project, Henry Fiberglass is ready to support you with expertise, customization, and reliable solutions.
WhatsApp
sales@fiberglassgo.com
+8615109923551