Elevating esthetics and safety: Cable railings in industrial settings

by arslan_ahmed | March 21, 2024 2:24 pm

[1]By Ryan Shure

Industrial buildings traditionally have the reputation of being cold, utilitarian structures. However, this notion is rapidly changing as more and more people understand the importance of ambiance and environment for promoting employee well-being.

With that said, modern industrial buildings cannot be all style with no foundation. They have to be able to get the job done, withstand heavy usage, and adhere to the highest safety standards.

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Multifunctional use of cable railings

To this effect, cable railings are one of the most effective building solutions available for promoting esthetics while maintaining utmost safety and security. During the construction phase, these railings provide temporary safety barriers on scaffolding, elevated platforms, and open edges, ensuring worker safety while maintaining a professional appearance that does not deteriorate in the face of inclement weather.

Due to these features, cable railings can also be employed as perimeter fencing around construction sites, demarcating boundaries, and protecting the area from unauthorized access. Their sleek design allows for ample visibility, enhancing the overall esthetics of the site and promoting a sense of order and cleanliness.

Within the structure itself, cable railings can be incorporated into architectural elements such as stairs and elevated walkways, contributing to the open esthetics of the project while prioritizing safety and functionality. There are also various ways in which cable railings can enhance industrial esthetics and safety standards.

Esthetic advantages of cable railings

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Cable railings have become increasingly popular in industrial settings due to their ability to enhance the overall appearance of a building. Here are some of the key esthetic advantages of cable railings in industrial spaces:

• Minimalist design–Cable railings’ minimalist design allows for maximum visibility and an unobstructed view of the surrounding environment. This creates a clean, uncluttered look that is highly desirable in modern industrial buildings.
• Versatility–Cable railings are incredibly dynamic and can be customized to suit a wide range of design styles. They can be used to create a modern, contemporary look or to create a more classic, industrial esthetic. This makes them an ideal choice for a variety of industrial settings.
• Enhanced natural light–Cable railings allow for an abundance of natural light to enter the space, creating a bright and airy atmosphere. This can help to improve the overall ambiance of the building and create a more pleasant working environment for employees.
• Low maintenance–Cable railings are incredibly low maintenance, which is a major advantage in industrial settings where durability and ease of cleaning are important. They do not require painting or staining, and they resist rust and corrosion.

Safety enhancements of cable railings

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Cable railings offer several safety advantages over traditional railing types, such as wood beams or metal balusters. As noted, they are strong and durable. Secondly, the cables used in cable railings are made of high-grade stainless steel, typically 304 or 316. Both stainless-steel types boast a high resistance to corrosion and wear, which are essential features for ensuring the safety and durability of commercial sites. The most common type of high-grade stainless steel is 304, which is known for its good corrosion resistance and formability.

The other commonly used stainless steel in cable railings is 316, which is similar to 304 but with a higher molybdenum content for even greater corrosion resistance, making it a preferred choice in environments exposed to higher levels of chemical agents, such as manufacturing or processing plants. If there is a downside to cable railings over traditional wood or metal railing, it is that as a “modern” railing solution, it will usually carry a higher upfront cost. Further, not all municipalities allow horizontal railing systems, so be sure to check local bylaws before beginning construction.

In addition to being strong and weather-resistant, cable railings also promote visibility in the built environment, which can help to improve safety in industrial settings. This is especially important in areas where there is a lot of foot traffic or where heavy machinery is being used.

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Finally, cable railings are easy to maintain. They do not require painting or staining, and they can be easily cleaned with a mild detergent and water. This can help reduce the risk of accidents and injuries in industrial settings.

Can cables be used as a rail? Yes, they can be used as a guard and infill for railings, but as an actual rail? Code states that stair railings must be at least 40 mm (1.5 in.) long and continuous. If the railing is attached to a wall, additional standards apply. As a result of the new barrier-free regulations, braille is now required on both the rail and the wall next to it.

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Styles of cable railings

There are various styles of commercial cable railing systems,¹ each with their own unique advantages. Here are a few of the most popular configurations:

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Swaged systems

Swaged systems are the most common type of cable railing system. They are made of stainless-steel cables, swaged or crimped at the ends. This creates a strong and secure connection. Swaged systems are also relatively easy to install, making them a good choice for DIY projects.

Swageless systems

Swageless systems are made of stainless-steel cables which are not swaged at the ends. Instead, they are connected using a variety of different fittings, including swageless terminals, eyebolts, and turnbuckles. Swageless systems are more expensive than swaged systems, but they are also more flexible and easier to adjust. This makes them a good choice for projects that require a lot of customization.

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These systems use metal posts, such as stainless-steel or aluminum, connected by cables. Metal post systems are also very strong and durable, as well as visually appealing. However, they are also more expensive than other types of cable railing systems.

These commercial styles are not limited to stainless steel, galvanized cables can also be used, and they can be painted or coated with a substance that resists corrosion. Moreover, these systems must constantly be kept in tension.

Wood post systems

These systems use wood posts, such as cedar or redwood, also connected by cables. Although wood post systems are attractive and affordable, they are not as strong or durable as metal post systems. One might find wood post systems in industrial docks.

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Boosting esthetics and safety

Modern industrial buildings are shifting toward a balance of esthetics and functionality, with cable railings emerging as a solution that enhances both. These railings, crafted from high-grade stainless steel, offer a sleek and minimalist design, providing unobstructed views and enhancing natural light. Their strength and durability make them ideal for industrial settings, with resistance to rust and corrosion. The visibility they provide improves safety, crucial in areas with foot traffic or heavy machinery. Several styles, including swaged and swageless systems, metal post systems, and wood post systems, cater to diverse needs, contributing to the evolving landscape of safe and esthetically pleasing industrial environments.

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Notes

¹ Learn more about cable railing systems, https://vivarailings.com/cable-railings[11].

[12]Author

Ryan Shure is a freelance writer who loves sharing his knowledge and expertise on renovations and construction. He also enjoys researching building material trends in his free time to help contractors and architects discover cost-effective materials and construction methods. His work as a freelance writer can be found on Building Product Advisor, a construction industry resource.

Source URL: https://www.constructioncanada.net/elevating-esthetics-and-safety-cable-railings-in-industrial-settings/

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