Adding Ramps to Production Facilities for Carts and Other Light-Duty Wheeled Traffic

How did the ancient Egyptians build the great pyramids? While some have speculated they subcontracted the job to space aliens, scientific investigation and evidence strongly suggest that internal and external ramp systems played critical roles. And even if extra-terrestrials had a hand, that did not preclude them from using ramps.

Workers in modern production plants do not haul stone blocks weighing several tons, but they need to transport loads efficiently in and around the facility. Modular access ramps are an ergonomic solution for moving carts and other wheeled equipment. They offer layout and design flexibility, enhanced mobility, heightened safety, and increased productivity.

Modular components provide layout flexibility.

A modular ramp system comprises interchangeable parts that can be configured to match site layout and design needs. Ramps are installed quickly and easily using only a bolt driver without requiring specialized labor. Since there are no permanent attachments to existing structures, modular ramps can be disassembled and reconfigured if the facility needs change.

Components include:

• Strong, lightweight, corrosion-resistant aluminum floor frames (which can have removable panels to access maintenance areas beneath the ramp)
• Anti-slip fiberglass mesh
• Powder-coated galvanized steel balustrades – also robust and corrosion-resistant
• “Warm to touch” PVC handrail tube
• Leveling feet

Enhanced mobility results in greater efficiency.

Ramps facilitate the smooth movement of carts and wheeled equipment across different levels within a production facility. Hand trucks, pallet jacks, toolboxes, waste bins, tow tractors, platform carts, and maintenance trollies are examples of mobile equipment aided by ramps.

Installing modular ramps minimizes the time and effort needed to transport materials, allowing workers to move products more quickly and with less physical strain. This results in faster production cycles and reduced downtime. By eliminating the difficulty and slowdowns associated with manual handling, ramps contribute to a more streamlined workflow.

Minimize risk and improve workplace safety.

Adding ramps significantly minimizes risks associated with lifting and carrying heavy loads, such as back injuries or strain. Additionally, the stable, gradual incline provided by ramps reduces the likelihood of trips and falls, ensuring a safer work environment for employees. This proactive approach to safety protects workers and helps to reduce costly workplace accidents.

Ramps provide tangible ergonomic benefits.

The advantages of modular ramps cannot be overstated. They reduce physical strain and associated injuries by eliminating the need for workers to manually lift and carry heavy items. This leads to fewer cases of absenteeism and fosters a happier, healthier workforce. Employees who feel supported and safe are inherently more productive, contributing to a positive workplace culture.

Understand the challenges of adding ramps.

Adding modular ramps to a production facility has challenges despite their benefits. Limited floor space may require meticulous planning to ensure the ramp’s slope and footprint are correct. Groundwork can be costly and, in some cases, necessitate significant facility renovations. A thorough understanding of work processes—including cart weights, dimensions, and traffic patterns—is essential to meeting regulatory and safety standards.

Installing modular ramps causes only minor disruptions or impacts to production schedules, but proper planning is important to minimize downtime. Calculating the return on investment (ROI) will help justify the time and equipment expenditure and ensure the ramps deliver tangible benefits over time.

How can we help you?

Although the process may present challenges, adding modular ramps to production facilities for carts and light-duty wheeled traffic can enhance mobility, safety, and productivity.

If you are responsible for production efficiency at your facility, FlexDecks can help. Our comprehensive services include hazard assessments, design and consultation, engineering, manufacturing, installation, and follow-up inspections and maintenance. Contact us for an evaluation of your facility’s safety needs.