The Ultimate Guide to Fibreglass Grating: Types, Standards, and Sustainability
Fibreglass grating is revolutionising industries by offering a lightweight, durable, and corrosion-resistant alternative to steel and other traditional materials. Whether you need industrial flooring, walkways, or platforms, fibreglass grating provides superior performance, minimal maintenance, and environmental benefits.
In this guide, we’ll explore the different types of fibreglass grating, key technical specifications, industry standards, and how fibreglass grating is now 100% recyclable, making it a sustainable choice for businesses worldwide.
What Are the Different Types of Fibreglass Grating?
Fibreglass grating comes in various forms, each designed for specific applications. Unlike steel grating or wooden flooring, fibreglass reinforced plastic (FRP) grating offers exceptional strength-to-weight ratio, chemical resistance, and durability.
1. Open Mesh Fibreglass Grating
Best for: Marine environments, offshore platforms, wastewater plants
🔹 Provides maximum drainage and ventilation, reducing water buildup and slip hazards.
🔹 Corrosion-resistant, making it ideal for wet and chemical-heavy environments.
🔹 Lightweight yet durable, making installation easier compared to steel.
2. Mini Mesh Fibreglass Grating
Best for: Pedestrian walkways, transport hubs, wheelchair-accessible areas
🔹 Smaller apertures prevent small objects from falling through.
🔹 Comfortable underfoot, making it safer for public spaces and transport infrastructure.
🔹 UV-resistant and weatherproof for long-term outdoor use.
3. Solid Top Fibreglass Grating
Best for: Industrial plants, food processing facilities, maintenance platforms
🔹 Provides full surface coverage, blocking debris and liquids from passing through.
🔹 High slip resistance with gritted or textured finishes.
🔹 Perfect for food processing plants, warehouses, and commercial buildings.
4. Moulded vs Pultruded Fibreglass Grating
Moulded FRP Grating offers bi-directional strength, making it impact-resistant and flexible.
Pultruded FRP Grating is stronger in one direction, making it better for high-load applications like bridges and vehicle access ramps.
For more information, check the BS 4592-6:2008 Industrial Flooring Standards.
What Are the Key Standards for Fibreglass Grating?
To ensure safety, performance, and compliance, fibreglass grating must meet strict industry standards. Here are the most important regulations:
1. Fire Retardancy Standards (ASTM E84)
🔹 Fibreglass grating meets ASTM E84 standards, ensuring low flame spread and high-temperature stability.
🔹 Provides fire resistance for industrial, offshore, and high-risk environments.
🔹 Read more: ASTM E84 Standard
2. Industrial Flooring & Walkways (BS 4592-6:2008)
🔹 Ensures fibreglass grating is structurally safe for heavy-duty applications.
🔹 Sets slip resistance, load-bearing capacity, and material durability requirements.
🔹 Read more: BS 4592 Standard
3. Permanent Means of Access (BS EN ISO 14122-3:2016)
🔹 Regulates safe access to industrial equipment using fibreglass walkways and platforms.
🔹 Essential for industries like rail, marine, and construction.
🔹 Read more: BS EN ISO 14122
4. Anti-Slip Standards & Load Ratings
🔹 Exceeds UK Health & Safety Executive (HSE) slip resistance requirements.
🔹 Prevents slips and falls in hazardous environments like factories and power plants.
Fibreglass Grating vs. Steel: A Technical Comparison
Fibreglass grating outperforms steel flooring in terms of weight, corrosion resistance, and ease of installation.
Feature Fibreglass Grating Steel Grating
| Feature | Fibreglass Grating | Steel Grating |
|---|---|---|
| Weight (kg/m²) | 12-15 kg | 40-50 kg |
| Corrosion Resistance | Excellent – No rust | Prone to rust, needs painting |
| Installation | Easy – No welding required | Requires welding & heavy lifting |
| Maintenance | Minimal – No repainting needed | Frequent rust-proofing required |
| Slip Resistance | High – Textured surfaces available | Moderate – Becomes slippery when wet |
For more details, visit Fibreglass vs Steel Comparison.
Is Fibreglass Grating Recyclable? The Sustainability Benefits
🔹 100% recyclable – Our d² fibreglass grating supports a circular economy, reducing waste.
🔹 Lower carbon footprint – Has already saved 5 million kg of CO₂ emissions.
🔹 No toxic coatings or galvanization required, unlike steel.
Fibreglass vs Steel in Sustainability
Feature Fibreglass Grating Steel Grating
Carbon Footprint Low – Fully recyclable High – Energy-intensive production
Maintenance Minimal – No rust or repainting Frequent upkeep needed
Lifespan 50+ years Shorter lifespan due to corrosion
Fibreglass requires less maintenance, lasts longer, and has a lower environmental impact than steel.
For more details, visit our Sustainability & Recycling page.
Conclusion: Why Choose Fibreglass Grating?
If you need high-performance, corrosion-resistant, and lightweight grating, fibreglass is the superior choice over steel. Whether for industrial flooring, offshore platforms, or pedestrian walkways, fibreglass grating provides long-term durability, sustainability, and cost savings.
✅ Lighter than steel, making installation easier
✅ 100% recyclable, reducing CO₂ emissions
✅ Non-slip and fire-resistant, enhancing workplace safety
✅ No rust, no maintenance, making it cost-effective
