Roof Walkway System FAQs
What is a roof walkway system?
A roof walkway system is a level, clearly defined access path that lets workers move safely across a roof for maintenance, inspection and cleaning. As well as protecting people, it keeps foot traffic off the roof sheet and reduces wear on the roof surface. Kee Step stepovers and Kee Walk roof walkways combine to form that route across almost any roof layout.
How do Kee Step stepovers fit into a roof walkway system?
Even a well-planned walkway has to deal with obstacles. Kee Step stepovers bridge pipework, cabling and changes in level so the safe access route stays continuous from one side of the roof to the other. Used alongside Kee Walk roof walkways and guardrail, they create a complete safe access system rather than a route with gaps in it.
Can a roof walkway system be installed without roof penetration?
Yes. Kee Step stepovers need no roof penetration, and Kee Walk roof walkways are available as non-penetrative, free-standing systems that sit on the roof surface. This preserves the roof membrane and suits fragile roofs, where fixings would risk damage.
Which roof types can a roof walkway system be used on?
Kee Walk roof walkways are designed for a wide range of roof types, from flat roofs to pitched and sloping roofs, standing seam roofs, metal roofs and built up roof systems. Kee Step stepovers suit asphalt, concrete, membrane and PVC. Between them, a safe access route can be built to almost any roof layout and roof angles.
When does a roof walkway system need a guardrail?
Where a walking route runs close to an unprotected edge, a guardrail turns the walkway into collective fall protection, the preferred control measure for work at height. Kee Walk with guardrail, or a Kee Line lifeline where a guardrail is not suitable, keeps workers protected from falls along the full route.
How is a roof walkway system kept slip resistant and compliant?
Kee Walk treads, available in aluminium or nylon, give enhanced slip resistance for sure footing in wet conditions. The walkway is tested to the European standard EN 516:2006, which sets the test requirements for roof access walkways by measuring deflection under specified loads, while the stepover range is designed in accordance with EN 14122-3 and EN 516 Class 1-C.
7 Key Features of an Effective Roof Walkway System
1. A clearly defined access path
A roof walkway system gives workers a level, clearly defined access path across the roof, keeping foot traffic off the roof sheet and reducing wear on the roof surface.
2. Stepovers that keep the route continuous
Kee Step stepovers bridge obstacles such as pipework, cabling and changes in level, so the safe access route is not broken by rooftop hazards.
3. Built for various roof types
With a modular design, the system adapts to various roof types, including flat roofs, pitched roofs, standing seam roofs, metal roofs and built up roof systems.
4. No roof penetration
Non-penetrative, free-standing options protect the roof surface and suit fragile roofs, so safe access does not come at the cost of the roof itself.
5. Enhanced slip resistance
Kee Walk aluminium or nylon treads provide enhanced slip resistance, helping workers keep their footing in wet or greasy conditions.
6. Collective fall protection where needed
Adding guardrail along an exposed route, or a Kee Line lifeline, provides collective fall protection wherever there is an unprotected edge.
7. Designed and tested to recognised standards
The walkway is tested to the European standard EN 516:2006, with stepovers designed in accordance with EN 14122-3 and EN 516 Class 1-C for assured safe access.
