A Mezzanine Minute…

Optimizing Your Mezzanine Access Points

When planning and laying out your warehouse mezzanine it is important to consider your personnel access points and material flow. First, let’s consider the access and egress points for people. Depending upon your local codes and intended usage of your mezzanine, you may need two points of egress (emergency) exiting. Conventional stairs are normally used but you may have another exit if you are adding on or adjoining to another floor or mezzanine level. Planning for the stairs can require some creativity. The basic standard set up for stairs is straight welded stairs with or without a landing. Landings are required if you are turning right or left at the top of the stairs. There are numerous options for stairs to make them fit into those tight areas or to maximize your space and optimize your mezzanine. Intermediate landings with turns, L-shaped, U-shaped, or stacking stairs can all be possibilities. Also, stairs can be inside or outside of the mezzanine perimeter. It is also important to remember that stairs are often longer than most people think due to building code requirements. You can choose from the following style of stairs

Welded Stairs
Our welded mezzanine stairs can fit your existing, new, or free-standing mezzanine. If you are looking for a simple standard access point to your mezzanine the standard welded stair option is your answer. We can also add a custom platform to the top of the stairs to meet existing requirements. The standard width for the welded stair structure measures 36”. These stairs are available in open bar grate or closed diamond plate treads.

Knock-Down Stairs
Our knock-down stair systems offer a high-quality, code-compliant, industrial solution for your access point. With the standard width at 36” and heights ranging from 3’ to 12’ our knock-down stairs Meet OSHA 1910.24 Safety Requirements. These knock-down industrial stair options are offered in Straight, L, or U-shaped designs. Knock-Down stairs are typically used on mezzanine systems with limited space for installation.

*Note: Any staircase over 12′ requires an intermediate landing.

On the Next Mezzanine Minute… Considering Material Flow When Designing Your Mezzanine

AK Material Handling Systems is a mezzanine systems provider located in Maple Grove, MN working on mezzanine and warehouse systems across the United States. If you are interested in pricing or more information on industrial mezzanines call 800-722-5908 or contact us.