Factory Mezzanine Safety: 5 Crucial Considerations

Mezzanines are commonplace in factories. They offer a vertical dimension and additional space for storage or operations. But these benefits come with critical safety issues. Without safety standards, factories may experience accidents and injuries, endangering the lives of workers and visitors.

Here are five considerations to help ensure mezzanine safety:

1. Guardrails and handrails

Guardrails and handrails are essential safety features. They should be installed to prevent accidental falls from mezzanine edges. These barriers should be sturdy, comply with Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) standards, and have regular inspections. Place rails along every edge, including around staircases and lifts.

Safety gates can serve as additional barriers to keep workers from accidentally falling off the mezzanine.

2. Load capacity and weight distribution

Each mezzanine has a maximum load capacity and recommended weight distribution to maintain structural integrity and prevent overloading. Exceeding these limits puts workers’ safety and the structure’s stability at risk. Clearly display the maximum weight limit, and educate workers on appropriate loading and distribution. If you use machinery or equipment on the mezzanine, ensure it’s evenly distributed along the structure.

3. Access points and stairways

Providing safe access points, such as stairways or ladders, is crucial to avoid accidents when going up or down from the mezzanine. Stairways must be well lit, have anti-slip surfaces, and remain free of obstruction or clutter. Each stairway’s angle should be no steeper than 50 degrees, and its width should be at least 22 inches to accommodate foot traffic and prevent falls. For lifts, entry and egress points should be clearly marked and gated, and no obstructions should inhibit operation.

4. Safety signage and training

Safety signs remind workers and visitors to be mindful of proper procedures. This signage should be visible throughout the mezzanine area and include warnings about weight limits and potential hazards. Employees should also receive comprehensive training before working on or around the mezzanine. The training should teach workers how to use the equipment safely, spot hazards, and follow protocols when responding to emergencies.

5. Regular inspections and maintenance

With regular inspections and maintenance, you can extend the lifespan of the mezzanine structure and keep your facility safe. Frequent inspections can detect problems before they become larger issues. Follow a regular maintenance schedule to address identified problems promptly. This type of schedule may cover everything from checking guardrails and flooring to ensuring adequate lighting.

Mezzanine safety is crucial

While mezzanines add vertical space and help alleviate congestion on the factory floor, safety must come first. Thankfully, mezzanine safety is simple to achieve with proper training, a well-designed structure, and general awareness. Prioritize the safety of your workers and visitors by enforcing mezzanine safety standards — in both design and practice.