When working in industrial environments or performing maintenance tasks at height , ensuring safe access is essential. The UNE-EN ISO 14122 standard establishes the requirements for the design of walkways, platforms, ladders, and other permanent means of access to machinery and roofs. One of the most important aspects it regulates is the minimum width required for workers to move safely.
In this guide we summarize the key values and their practical application.
What is the minimum width according to UNE-EN ISO 14122?
The standard establishes different widths depending on the type of access and the intended use:
1. Walkways, platforms and maintenance corridors
- Standard minimum width: 800 mm.
This is the recommended dimension to allow safe passage of operators and facilitate maneuverability with tools or maintenance equipment. - Exceptional use: 600 mm.
Permitted when space is very limited or access is occasional. - Very specific circumstances: 500 mm.
Only applicable in short sections and technical areas where a greater width is not possible. - Frequent use or transit of several people: 1,000 mm recommended.
2. Fixed or inclined stairs
Although the standard includes specific sections for stairs, the minimum width is generally less than that of walkways, as their use is less frequent. However, they must always allow for safe ascent and descent and comply with the necessary safety measures.
Why is it important to comply with these widths?
Complying with the minimum values of UNE-EN ISO 14122 is essential for:
- Reduce the risk of falls from different or the same level.
- Ensure safe passage, even in windy, humid or inclined conditions.
- Facilitate the maintenance of machinery, solar panels or industrial equipment.
- Comply with legal requirements , avoiding liabilities and penalties.
- Optimize the design of access points on industrial roofs , especially in high-risk environments.
Application in technical Walkway for roofs
Technical walkways like CAREX® are specifically designed to meet these regulatory criteria. Their non-slip surface, structural stability, and modular configuration guarantee:
- Adequate widths according to the standard.
- Safety during travel for photovoltaic installations or maintenance.
- Greater durability and resistance in metal or sandwich-type roofs.
Complying with UNE-EN ISO14122 is not only a technical obligation, but also a direct improvement in workplace safety.
CAREX® and Minimum Width according to UNE-EN ISO 14122
The minimum width of access points regulated by UNE-EN ISO 14122 is a critical element in any industrial or high-rise maintenance project. Designing walkways and corridors that meet these specifications is the best guarantee of safety, efficiency, and regulatory compliance.
If you want to integrate certified technical walkways or need advice for projects on industrial roofs, systems like CAREX® offer a compliant and performance-oriented solution.
