The Difference Between Mezzanines and Platforms

Both mezzanines and platforms involve raised surfaces within a warehouse, retail spaces, and office spaces. Mezzanines are more substantial and versatile structures, often designed for human occupancy and customized for various uses since they are permanent.

Platforms, on the other hand, are simpler and primarily used for storage purposes, elevated working areas or equipment and may not be as extensive or regulated as mezzanines.
Mezzanines and Platforms
Mezzanine:
Structure: A mezzanine is a raised, intermediate floor or platform that is installed between the main floor and the ceiling of a building. It is a semi-permanent or permanent structure and is typically supported by columns or posts.

Purpose: Mezzanines are often used for various purposes, including storage, workspace, office space, or additional levels for conveyor systems. They are versatile and can be customized to suit specific needs.

Access: Mezzanines are typically accessed via staircases, ladders, ramps, or lifts. They are designed to accommodate human traffic and often have safety features like guardrails.

Construction: Building a mezzanine involves structural engineering and may require permits and compliance with building codes and regulations.

Code: Mezzanines have more stringent code compliance requirements than platforms including additional exits/entrances and fire code compliance.


Platform:
Structure: A platform in a warehouse is a flat, elevated surface that is used primarily for storage or as a workspace. Platforms can be temporary or semi-permanent structures, and they may not be as substantial or enclosed as mezzanines.

Purpose: Platforms are often used for the storage of goods or equipment and may not be intended for human occupancy. They can be simple structures and may not have the same level of customization as mezzanines.

Access: Platforms may be accessed using forklifts, pallet jacks, or other material handling equipment. They may not always have dedicated access points for personnel.

Construction: Building a platform may be simpler and may not require the same level of structural engineering or regulatory compliance as a mezzanine. Platforms are built to be freestanding without connecting to the structure and therefor not part of the total building square footage for fire codes.

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