Equipment Platforms vs Mezzanines

Equipment Platforms vs Mezzanines

Equipment platforms and mezzanines are two types of structures often used in warehouses and industrial facilities to maximize floor space. However, there are some differences between the two.

In this blog post, we will clarify the distinction and discuss the pros and cons of each option.

Defining Equipment Platforms and Mezzanines

First, let’s define what we mean by equipment platforms and mezzanines.

An equipment platform is a permanent or temporary structure that provides support and access to mechanical equipment. Equipment platforms are constructed to hold heavy machinery and equipment in place at an elevated level in a facility.

In contrast, a mezzanine is an intermediate floor installed between the main floors of a building. Mezzanines act as semi-permanent structures providing additional square footage of floor space. Unlike equipment platforms, mezzanines in warehouses and industrial settings typically support storage, office space, and other light industrial uses rather than heavy mechanical systems.

So in summary:

  • Equipment platforms support mechanical systems and equipment
  • Mezzanines create extra floor space for storage, offices, etc.

Equipment Platform vs Mezzanine: Key Differences

There are several other key differences between equipment platforms and mezzanines:

Purpose

As mentioned previously, equipment platforms specifically provide access and support for heavy mechanical equipment like HVAC systems or conveyors. Mezzanines simply offer additional floor space to extend the usable area of a facility.

Load Capacity

Equipment platforms are engineered to handle very heavy loads from mechanical equipment, ductwork, piping, etc. Mezzanines only need to be designed for lighter storage, shelving, or office uses.

Building Code Classification

Importantly, equipment platforms are classified differently in building codes compared to mezzanines. Per IBC regulations, equipment platforms are not considered part of the building’s floor area or fire area calculations. Mezzanines greater than 50% of the room area must be counted toward overall building square footage and fire code requirements.

Accessibility

Equipment platforms may only be accessible by permanent ladders or stairways. Section 505.5 of the International Building Code prohibits providing wheelchair lifts or elevators as part of the means of egress for any part of an equipment platform.

Mezzanines over 300 square feet generally must have an ADA-compliant ramp, wheelchair lift, or elevator to provide access for disabled occupants.

Warehouse Mezzanines vs. Equipment Platforms

Warehouse Mezzanines vs. Equipment Platforms

Now that we’ve covered the core differences, you may still wonder how warehouse mezzanines compare specifically to industrial equipment platforms. Here are some key comparison points:

  • Warehouse mezzanines optimize floor space for inventory storage and picking operations. Equipment platforms position heavy machinery at needed heights.
  • Mezzanines must meet stricter requirements for fire suppression, alarms, and egress. Equipment platforms have fewer regulatory requirements.
  • Installing a mezzanine triggers higher property taxes since it increases usable floor area. Equipment platforms usually don’t impact taxes.
  • Mezzanines allow for the installation of bathrooms, offices, and amenities for employee comfort. Equipment platforms solely support equipment functionality.

Overall, companies install warehouse mezzanines when they need more shelf and floor space for inventory and order fulfillment operations. On the other hand, equipment platforms specifically locate mechanical equipment like conveyors and ductwork more conveniently overhead.

Pros and Cons Comparison

Deciding between constructing an equipment platform or a mezzanine depends heavily on the intended application within your facility. Let’s outline some of the top advantages and disadvantages of each structure:

Equipment Platform Pros

  • Position heavy equipment overhead conveniently
  • Avoids reducing clear ceiling height
  • Less stringent code requirements
  • Typically no property tax increases

Equipment Platform Cons

  • Limited to equipment access only
  • Permanent stairways can occupy floor space
  • Often requires major structural reinforcement

Mezzanine Pros

  • Adds usable floor space for offices, storage, etc.
  • Improves ergonomics with easier access
  • Flexible sizing to meet spatial needs

Mezzanine Cons

  • Triggers code upgrades like sprinklers and alarms
  • Incurs higher property taxes
  • Limits clear ceiling height
  • Major construction costs

With these pros and cons in mind, we can summarize a few key questions to identify which structure suits your facility best:

  • Do you specifically need to elevate equipment overhead? If yes, an equipment platform is likely the ideal approach.
  • If you only need more shelf and floor space, a warehouse mezzanine is probably the better option.
  • What is your available budget? Equipment platforms often require significant structural building costs.
  • How will increasing square footage impact your taxes and insurance?

Building Codes and Permits

Regardless of whether you install an equipment platform or mezzanine, building codes and permit requirements apply to protect safety. Generally, any platforms or mezzanines require permits to ensure structural integrity and compliance with the International Building Code (IBC). And also, local jurisdictions tend to enforce regulations that depend on factors like square footage, configuration, construction materials, and use of the platform or mezzanine.”

Consequently, it is usually important to get in touch, early on, with local building officials when considering adding any permanent intermediate level in your facility:

This is especially so considering that building codes can sometimes prohibit some structures altogether based on ceiling height or other limitations. For instance, certain fire safety rules, may not allow mezzanines over 2500 square feet. This makes it such that working closely with architects and authorities ensures your options align with legal requirements before starting construction.

In summary, every industrial facility differs in dimensions, construction method, locality, and intended use case. While we’ve outlined general guidelines here, confirming specific regulations with your local authorities is an essential early step.

Equipment Platform vs Mezzanine: Key Takeaways

Here are the critical points we’ve discussed regarding equipment platforms versus warehouse mezzanines:

  • Equipment platforms hold heavy machinery in place overhead, while mezzanines simply add floor space for offices, storage, picking, etc.
  • Load capacity, building codes, accessibility, and more all differentiate platforms from mezzanines.
  • Construction expenses, property taxes, insurance rates, and available height can dictate which choice makes financial sense.
  • Local building codes drive legal requirements; consult officials and architects early when planning additions.