Case Studies / Raised GRP walkway for an oil-tanker deck
Marine access · Case study
Raised GRP walkway for an oil-tanker deck
A digitally coordinated, prefabricated GRP gantry system created safe walking and maintenance routes across a densely populated tanker deck.
The challenge
Safe access across a heavily populated working deck
The vessel was being refitted in dry dock with a deck crowded by pipes, conduits and other mechanical and electrical services. It lacked defined walking routes and reliable maintenance access.
The client required a turnkey access system that would improve crew safety without creating clashes or exposing critical deck services to accidental damage.
The engineered response
Designed in the vessel model, built for the deck
With COVID-19 restrictions preventing the usual survey approach, site information was captured by the client and developed into a coordinated 3D gantry design. The GRP walkway was integrated into the vessel model to identify and resolve potential clashes before manufacture.
- Raised routes positioned around densely packed deck services
- GRP substructure and handrails specified for marine exposure
- Open-mesh anti-slip grating used for secure access underfoot
- Components prefabricated to reduce work and disruption in dry dock
Project delivery
From requirement to completed access
Capture
Use client survey information to establish the deck geometry and constraints.
Coordinate
Integrate the gantry design into the vessel model and resolve clashes.
Prefabricate
Cut and assemble project components in-house before shipment.
Install
Mobilise the prepared system and complete the deck works in six days.
The installed system
A safer route through a complex deck environment
The completed design establishes clear routes for crew movement and maintenance while helping protect pipes, conduits and other M&E infrastructure below.
GRP was selected for its corrosion resistance, electrical non-conductivity and anti-sparking characteristics, with an anti-slip walking surface suited to demanding marine use.
Delivery and outcome
Minimal downtime, safer access and protected services
The turnkey approach converted a congested deck into an organised access environment. Digital coordination reduced uncertainty, prefabrication shortened the dry-dock programme and the installed GRP system provided durable walking routes for crew and maintenance teams.
Related GRP Express routes
Products behind this type of solution
This project was delivered as a bespoke Vital GRP solution. For supply-only and cut-to-size requirements, these GRP Express routes provide the closest starting points.
GRP flooring and grating
Open mesh, solid-top and project-ready GRP flooring options.
Explore GRP grating →Structural GRP profiles
Angles, channels, box sections, tubes and beams for fabrication.
Explore structural profiles →Technical product support
Help with selection, sizing, cutting, fixings and buying routes.
Discuss your requirement →Planning a marine walkway or raised-access route?
Send the deck layout, dimensions, loading requirements and available survey information. We can help identify the most suitable product, fabrication or wider group project route.
Project delivered by Vital GRP, part of the Vital group. Related product families and supply routes are available through GRP Express. Project photography is reproduced from the group-owned Vital Case Studies library.