Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are the major differences between different gangway manufacturers?

Although there can be many differences in the style and appearance of gangways, one of the key factors is the live load that the gangway can support. All Technidock gangways have a standard minimum live load of 75 lbs./sq. ft., and our ADA gangways require a minimum of 100 lbs./sq. ft. The live load pertains to how much the gangway supports and how it feels when it is walked on. When walking on Technidock gangways, you do not feel the deflection, and they are extremely stable.

What types of handrails used on gangways?

Primarily, round handrails are used. This design provides ample gripping surface for a person’s hand to wrap around the handrail. If someone were to slip, it would be much easier and more comfortable to grasp a round shape as opposed to another shape like square or rectangular. All of Technidock handrails are round. Additionally, all of our standard gangways feature a brushed finish. This not only enhances their appearance but also provides a texture to help prevent your hand from slipping.

What Type of Mounts are there for gangways?

There are several types of gangway mounts available. The most common designs are for attaching to a bulkhead or retaining wall, or for mounting directly onto a fixed pier. These mounts should always be constructed from steel and then hot-dip galvanized for durability. Steel is considerably stronger, and the mount must prevent any gaps greater than ½ inch between the shore side and the gangway. Cast aluminum mounts are generally not a good choice, as they often fail after the first major storm.

What is the method of fabrication of the gangways?

All aluminum gangways should be welded. When a gangway is properly welded, all its components form a single, one-piece construction. This prevents individual parts from moving when the gangway is in use and under stress. If a gangway is assembled with other types of fasteners, the connections can loosen when the gangway is stressed, causing the parts to move and continuously wear down over time.

What type of walking surface should gangways have?

The walking surface should be a welded part of the gangway. This surface needs to be serrated or otherwise slip-resistant to help prevent accidents, especially in inclement weather. While providing excellent traction, the surface should also be barefoot-friendly. Since the slip-resistant texture is an extruded shape, it should last for the entire life of the gangway.