How to Maintain Aluminium Gangways for Longevity

Aluminium gangways are the silent workhorses of many Australian industries, from maritime and logistics to mining and construction. They provide essential, reliable access between two points, often under challenging conditions. Engineered for strength and mobility, these structures are tough, but even the toughest gear needs a solid maintenance plan to ensure its safety and longevity. Ignoring proper upkeep isn’t just a risk to your asset; it’s a non-negotiable safety hazard. This guide cuts through the noise, providing a no-nonsense approach to aluminium gangway maintenance that will keep your equipment performing optimally for years to come.

Why Regular Maintenance Matters for Aluminium Gangways

Many assume that because aluminium is inherently resistant to rust, it requires little attention. This is a costly misconception. While aluminium won’t rust like steel, it is susceptible to environmental degradation, heavy wear, and tear that can compromise its structural integrity. Regular, systematic maintenance is the only reliable way to guarantee that your gangways remain fully compliant with Australian safety standards. A small investment of time in upkeep avoids the huge cost of major repairs, liability issues from structural failures, or premature replacement of expensive equipment. When you commit to how to maintain aluminium gangways, you are committing to a safer workplace and a stronger balance sheet.

Common Problems That Reduce Gangway Lifespan

Understanding the enemy is the first step in winning the fight against degradation. Gangway lifespan is typically reduced by two main factors: the environment and the intensity of use.

Corrosion and Environmental Damage

While pure aluminium forms a protective oxide layer, prolonged exposure to specific environments can accelerate corrosion. If your gangways are near the ocean, the constant exposure to salt spray is highly corrosive. Similarly, industrial sites with high chemical vapour or acidic rain can strip away the protective surface. This type of damage often manifests as pitting or white powder deposits. Preventing corrosion in aluminium gangways must be an ongoing, active process, not just a reactive fix. You need to routinely clean off corrosive agents to ensure the gangway’s full structural load capacity remains intact.

Heavy Usage and Wear Issues

Construction and mining environments are rough on equipment. Gangways are constantly subjected to heavy foot traffic, dragging tools, and repeated setup and takedown. This heavy usage leads to predictable wear:

• Decking: The serrated, non-slip surfaces can wear down, losing their critical traction.
• Welds and Joints: Repeated stress can cause micro-fractures in welded areas or loosen bolts and connection pins.
• Wheels/Castors: If the gangway is mobile, wheels can seize up or degrade, making the unit difficult to move and increasing the risk of workers being forced to drag or improperly lift the equipment.

Practical Tips for Cleaning and Storage

Effective maintenance is rooted in consistent cleaning and responsible storage. This is where simple discipline makes the biggest difference in aluminium gangway maintenance.

Safe Cleaning Methods for Aluminium Surfaces

You don’t need harsh chemicals to clean aluminium, in fact, they can do more harm than good by damaging the protective oxide layer.

1. Rinse First: Use a high-pressure hose to remove loose dirt, dust, and any salt or chemical residue immediately after use, particularly in coastal or industrial areas.
2. Gentle Scrub: Use a mild, pH-neutral soap or detergent and a soft brush or cloth to scrub the decking and frame. Avoid steel wool or abrasive pads that can scratch the metal and compromise its surface integrity.
3. Thorough Rinse: Always rinse thoroughly with fresh water to remove all soap residue, which can attract dirt or cause staining.
4. Air Dry: Allow the gangways to dry completely before storage or next use.

These gangway cleaning and upkeep tips are non-negotiable for longevity.

Protecting Gangways from Harsh Conditions

Proper storage dramatically contributes to how to maintain aluminium gangways. When the gangway is not in use for an extended period, treat it like the valuable asset it is:

• Cover It: Use a tarpaulin or protective cover to shield the unit from direct sunlight, rain, and dust accumulation.
• Elevate It: Store the gangway off the ground on blocks or racks to prevent corrosion in aluminium gangways by ensuring good air circulation and preventing contact with potentially corrosive ground surfaces (like wet concrete or soil).
• Lock It: For mobile units, ensure all castors are locked or that the unit is securely chocked to prevent accidental movement.

Inspection, Repairs, and When to Replace

A maintenance schedule is useless without a rigorous inspection routine. Inspections need to be carried out by a competent person who knows what to look for. One thing is for sure: They are your first line of defence against catastrophic failure.

The Inspection Checklist

The inspection must include a check of all critical components:

• Decking: Look for excessive wear on the anti-slip surface. If the serrations are worn smooth, the unit is a slip hazard and requires deck replacement.
• Structure: Check every weld for cracks, especially around load-bearing points. Look for bent or warped rails, which indicate a loss of structural integrity from overloading or impact.
• Fittings: Ensure all bolts, pins, and locking mechanisms are tight and functioning smoothly. Lubricate moving parts where necessary.

Repair and Replacement

If damage is detected, it must be addressed immediately by a certified technician. Never attempt to “field repair” structural components with welding or non-standard parts, as this instantly voids safety certifications and poses extreme danger. If the primary load-bearing structure (rails or major supports) is compromised beyond a safe repair, the only acceptable solution is replacement. Never risk an injury to save on the cost of a new unit. Your safety protocols must clearly define the line between a repairable issue and a mandatory replacement.

Conclusion: Keeping Aluminium Gangways Safe and Durable

The key to decades of reliable service from your aluminium gangways is simple: respect the equipment and follow a tough, consistent maintenance schedule. Actively focusing on the maintenance of aluminium gangways is key. This means disciplined cleaning, proper storage, and rigorous inspections. By doing this, you drastically extend the life of your investment. More importantly, you uphold your commitment to height safety. Don’t wait for a failure to act. Make proactive aluminium gangway maintenance a core part of your operational playbook.