Raising the bar: The use of cable railings in industrial settings

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  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 sleek, contemporary look or a more traditional, industrial aesthetic. 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—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

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. These two varieties of stainless steel are highly resistant to wear and corrosion, two qualities that are critical to guaranteeing the longevity and safety of commercial installations. 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 industrial 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. In addition, 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.

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.

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: