Roof Walkway in Malaysia · 40 Years in Consultation & Installation

As the leading provider of height access and safety solutions in Malaysia since 1984, TopScope (M) Sdn. Bhd. specializes in the design, supply, and installation of advanced roof walkway systems like WalkSafe® and Kee Walk®.

Read on to discover why roof walkways are essential, what types are best suited for the Malaysian market, and why TopScope (M) Sdn. Bhd. should be your first choice for consultation and installation.

What is a Roof Walkway?

A roof walkway is a specially designed system installed on building rooftops to provide safe access for maintenance, inspections, and repairs. In Malaysia, where heavy rain, high humidity, and intense sun are common, roof walkways are essential for ensuring the safety of workers and protecting the roof’s integrity. Roof walkways provide a stable, non-slip platform that minimizes roof damage and enhances worker safety.

TopScope’s Expertise: For 40 years, TopScope has been providing expert consultation and installation services for safety and height access solutions in Malaysia. We specialise in installing WalkSafe® and Kee Walk® roof walkway systems for our clients.

Main Components of Roof Walkways

Roof walkways are composed of several key components designed to withstand Malaysia’s harsh tropical climate:

Walkway Panels

These are the primary surfaces workers walk on, usually made from durable materials like aluminium, fibreglass reinforced plastic (FRP), or galvanised steel. These panels are designed to withstand weather exposure and provide long-term stability.

Non-Slip Surface

To ensure worker safety, walkway panels often come with a textured, non-slip surface that provides grip in wet or slippery conditions, which is especially crucial in Malaysia’s rainy climate.

Support Brackets

These hold the walkway panels securely in place, elevating them slightly above the roof surface to avoid direct contact and potential damage to the roofing materials. They also ensure proper drainage beneath the walkways.

Guardrails (Optional)

Guardrails can be installed alongside walkways for additional fall protection, especially on pitched or elevated rooftops where safety risks are higher. They are often made from the same materials as the walkway panels for consistency and durability.

Benefits of Roof Walkways

Efficiency in Maintenance

Regular rooftop maintenance, including servicing HVAC systems or solar panels, becomes quicker and safer with a properly installed roof walkway system.

Enhanced Safety

Roof walkways provide a safe passage across the roof, reducing the risk of slips, falls, and accidents. This is crucial in Malaysia, where slippery conditions due to heavy rain are common.

Prevention of Roof Damage

Direct foot traffic on the roof can cause significant wear and tear, leading to costly repairs. Walkways protect the roofing materials by distributing weight evenly.

Weather Resistance

Roof walkways are designed to withstand harsh weather conditions, including heavy rain, intense heat, and UV exposure, which are common in Malaysia. This ensures long-lasting performance without frequent replacements or repairs.

Increased Worker Productivity

A well-installed roof walkway system allows workers to move efficiently across the roof, reducing time spent navigating obstacles and uneven surfaces. This leads to faster, more effective maintenance and repair work.

Compliance with Local Regulations

Adhering to Malaysian safety standards, roof walkways ensure compliance with OSHA guidelines for rooftop access and fall protection, helping your company avoid potential legal issues.

At TopScope, we ensures that you receive the full range of benefits while complying with Malaysia’s strict safety standards.

3 Most Common Roof Walkway Materials

Various types of roof walkways are available, each suited to different needs and environments in Malaysia:

Aluminium Walkways

Lightweight and easy to install, aluminium walkways are highly resistant to corrosion, making them ideal for Malaysia’s tropical climate, where heavy rainfall and high humidity are common.
Their durability and ability to withstand exposure to the elements without rusting or deteriorating make them a popular choice for both commercial and residential applications.
Additionally, aluminium walkways can be fitted with non-slip surfaces, ensuring safety during wet conditions.

Fibreglass Reinforced Plastic (FRP) Walkways

Known for their high resistance to UV radiation and chemical exposure, FRP walkways are perfect for industrial settings where the roof may be exposed to corrosive substances or extreme temperatures.
FRP is non-conductive, making it an excellent choice for electrical installations or environments where safety around electrical equipment is a priority.
They are also lightweight yet incredibly strong, ensuring a long lifespan even in harsh conditions.

Galvanised Steel Walkways

Galvanised steel walkways are coated with a protective layer of zinc, which helps prevent rust and corrosion, making them well-suited for heavy-duty industrial applications.
Their strength and durability allow them to support significant weight and frequent foot traffic, making them a reliable choice for areas with large rooftop equipment like HVAC systems or in environments with high levels of wear and tear.
Though heavier than aluminium and FRP, they provide unmatched stability in demanding conditions.

TopScope’s Expertise: Depending on our client’s needs and environment, we at TopScope carefully assess which material will provide the best solution, ensuring both safety and longevity for the specific rooftop conditions.

3 Common Applications of Roof Walkways in Malaysia

Roof walkways have a variety of applications across different sectors in Malaysia:

Commercial Buildings

Office complexes and shopping malls often have rooftop HVAC systems and solar panels that require regular maintenance.

Green Roofs and Solar Installations

With the increasing adoption of green roofs and solar panels in Malaysia, roof walkways provide necessary access for maintenance without damaging these installations.

Industrial Facilities

Factories and warehouses benefit from roof walkways that are essential for accessing large rooftop areas safely.

At TopScope, we specialise in designing and installing walkways that cater to these diverse applications.

Safety Standards for Rooftop Access in Malaysia

In Malaysia, rooftop access must comply with strict safety standards set by OSHA and other local authorities. These regulations emphasise fall protection such as fall restraint and fall arrest system, safe access, and the use of guardrails or safety lifeline systems where necessary.

At TopScope, with 40 years of experience in safety solutions since 1984, we are well-versed in local safety regulations and ensure that all our installations comply with the highest safety standards.

By choosing us, you ensure compliance with Malaysian laws and safeguard your workers from the risks associated with working at heights.