Choose the Right Dock Gangway for Safe & Reliable Access

Do you operate a shipyard, work on ships, or just need a gangway for your waterfront property? It is very useful to add a dock gangway, but it is quite difficult to choose the perfect one. To help you out, in this guide, we’ll explain what gangways actually are. We aim to provide you with all the information you need to choose the right gangway and help you ensure security and ease of usage. Keep reading!

What Is a Gangway?

A pathway that connects two locations is called a gangway. This usually consists of an open or enclosed walkway. That connects the ground to a vehicle, such as a boat or an airplane. This guide discusses gangways that give access to trucks, boats, trains, and ships.

Gangway Uses

They are primarily used to protect people’s safety and convenience, especially when they travel between areas divided by water or at different heights. They remove the need for people to jump or climb, which can be dangerous, and instead offer a safe and solid path. To improve safety, they are furnished with non-slip surfaces. Also, the railings are made to endure a variety of environmental circumstances.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Gangway

A gangway gives an advantage to someone with mobility obstacles. However, heavy items can circulate quite easily if the proper gangway is used. Thus, the following matters must be considered if you decide to put in a gangway.

Load Capacity

This is one of the most important things to take into account when picking a gangway for your needs. Find the heaviest weight that the gangway is capable of supporting securely. Also, check before loading and unloading big loads or transporting lots of people.

Intended Use

Specific characteristics are needed for different applications to improve ease and safety. For instance, handrails and non-slip surfaces are necessary to guarantee stability. Also, you should select a weather-resistant kind that can handle demanding settings if the gangway is exposed to inclement weather. Finally, the gangway’s mobility qualities should be evaluated. Is it adjustable or transportable? This is an essential factor to consider.

Available Space for Installation

It’s essential to select a gangway that fits the space you have available. The length of the gangway is constrained by the space, which affects the best kind and guarantees enough room for safe movement. Take careful measurements and be safe before trying to fit through a larger gangway.

Ease of Maintenance

When assessing gangway upkeep, search for long-lasting building materials. Choose simple, strong designs constructed from materials that won’t grow marine life. By prioritizing ease of maintenance, you will reduce long-term costs and effort. And extend the functional life of your gangway.

Safety

Handrails are usually installed on both sides of gangways. It gives users extra safety by giving them stability and support. The handrails lower the chance of falls and other mishaps and can also direct individuals. They enter and exit the gangway to increase people’s safety further.

It’s essential to consider the railing height when choosing a floating dock gangway. They shouldn’t be so high on block views or make it difficult to get on and off the gangway. But high enough to offer support and avoid falls.

Choosing The Right Gangway Material

Selecting suitable materials is essential in a maritime setting. The saltwater is so corrosive, so go for stainless steel or anodized aluminum to last a long time.

Polished stainless steel ages extremely well in a marine environment. In contrast to ferrous metals, anodized aluminum does not rust. It is highly stiff to heat, oxidation, and wear.

Carbon fiber is undoubtedly the greatest of all. Carbon fibers are far lighter than metallic materials. However, they can be used to create pieces that are both stiff and resistant to fracture. The price seems disproportionate, but that is the only drawback. Also, when it comes to coverings, it’s best to choose non-slip materials like wood.

Benefits of Good Quality Gangways

Gangways that are robust, secure, and practical allow effortless boat access. They improve the boating experience through stability and dependability. They are made for a variety of marine conditions. Let’s look at the benefits that gangways can bring you.

All Aluminum Construction

Aluminum gangways are long-lasting and lightweight, showcasing durability with no cracking. They can withstand rough weather and are also simple to move.

Decking

The usual choice for gangways is Sure Step Decking. This unique decking allows water to pass through and helps lower the possibility of damage during storms or floods. Aluminum decking is a free option. For guests’ safety and security, the rough metal decking and chicken strips offer an excellent grip, which also works in damp conditions.

Fixed or Removable handrails

Fixed: Compared to standard round tubing handrails, the patented handrail design is more cozy and manageable. These gangways are strong and long-lasting since they are composed of structural aluminum components.

Detachable: The railings on this gangway may be easily removed. Also, making it perfect for home usage and transportation. Comparing the proprietary-shaped railing to typical tube handrails on competitors’ gangways. The former is more pleasant and simpler to grasp.

Attachment

The attaching end has a full-length hinge to make it strong, while the other end is constructed with rollers and an inclined transition plate. Thanks to the rollers, the gangway can adapt to the dock’s motions. This is particularly essential if your deck fluctuates in height. It also helps to respond to changes in the water level. To ensure that the gangway will always be able to span the gap, it is crucial to measure the length.

ADA Compliance

Both the 4-foot and 3-foot ramps can offer accessibility to people with impairments. For wheelchair users, grab bars are positioned lower within the handrails of the normally accessible ramp. Safety features include anti-slip aluminum decking and full-length kick plates on both sides at the bottom to prohibit sliding off the edge. A full-length hinge on one end and rollers with an exit ramp on the other. These ramps are made of sturdy, long-lasting aluminum.

Conclusion

Choosing the right dock gangway is essential for ease of use and security. Selecting the appropriate gangway can ensure that getting to your dock or boat is simple and safe. At Tonka Built, we take great pride in our many years of expertise and top-notch customer support. Our skilled crew installs and removes docks and boat lifts every spring and fall. By putting your trust in a respectable business like ours, you can be sure that your property on the beach will be protected. Also, you will receive the greatest answer for your demands over the long term.