Checklist – Commercial Aluminum Planking

  • Determine the application
    • What application are you working with?
    • Commercial aluminum planking is commonly used for bridge decking, bridge walkways, platforms, ramps, mezzanines and countless other applications.
  • Examine your options
    • Are you starting fresh with the application or replacing an existing surface?
    • Find out what type of aluminum planking you need.  There are unpunched and punched aluminum planking which serve different purposes.
    • Unpunched – ideal solution for a lightweight, corrosion resistant material.  This can be used for applications requiring bar grating with a plate attached to it.
    • Punched – also a strong, lightweight and corrosion resistant material.  Punched planking allows light and liquids to drain through.
    • A variety of punched patterns are available such as a diagonal pattern which meets the ADA requirements for wheelchair accessibility and high heel foot traffic.
  • Find out if you require slip resistance
    • If so, SLIPNOT can add an aluminum, stainless steel or steel non-slip to your aluminum planking, creating a high traction surface.
      • An aluminum SLIPNOT surface is available in Grade 1 (Fine) and Grade 2 (Medium).  Grade 1 (Fine) is used for light duty applications or areas where minimum surface roughness is desired and Grade 2 (Medium) can be used in nearly every application.
      • A stainless steel SLIPNOT surface offers a highly durable corrosion and chemical resistance non-slip surface, which withstands the most demanding environments.
      • Adding a steel SlipNOT® non-slip surface to your aluminum planking not only creates a more durable surface (as aluminum is a softer metal by nature), but is offered in a Grade 3 (Coarse).
  • Figure out if you need a specific surface or finish
    • A mill or painted finish may be added to any surface you choose.  Mill is the raw material color, with no additives.  Painted is offered in safety yellow or black, but must be properly applied so that the slip resistant properties are not compromised.
  • Determine specifications
    • What are your specific dimensions, such as width, length, thickness and quantity?
    • Punched and unpunched aluminum planking can be purchased in stock sheets or cut to size and custom formed for specific project requirements.
    • If you do not have the dimensions, you may want to have an architect, a contractor or a safety professional visit your site.
  • Research different companies
    • If your company requires a high quality product, then you may need to do your research to ensure you find exactly what you are looking for.  Finding the right company for your application is crucial to employee and pedestrian safety.
    • Always ask for samples that you could install and test within your facility.  This will give you an idea of the quality and surface grade.
    • Always ask questions regarding pricing, safety and reputability.  They should be able to give you a list of references.
  • Make sure your application meets OSHA and ADA standards
    • Contacting OSHA and ADA will not only guide you in the right direction, but give you recommendations and standards that need to be met.  OSHA and ADA may also have suggestions for reputable companies to contact.

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