Exploring our battery depot safe access solutions

Thanks to their high energy density, long lifespan, and reduced environmental impact, lithium-ion batteries are experiencing significant growth in rail applications. But this rise has also introduced various new safety challenges.

In June 2025, the Rail Safety and Standards Board (RSSB) released updated guidance on safety infrastructure in battery maintenance and charging areas. These updates shine a spotlight on the importance of safe access solutions in these areas – particularly those made from non-conductive and non-sparking materials. 

Our GRP platforms, grating, and handrails enable rail depot operators to quickly adapt to these changes, offering a compliant alternative to traditional metal structures. In today’s blog, we take a closer look at what’s changed, and explore how our GRP-based safe access solutions can help you stay ahead of the curve.

Understanding the new RSSB guidance

The RSSB’s latest technical notes (TN2316 and TN2317) hone in on the safety considerations of lithium-ion battery systems within rolling stock depots. These powerful batteries bring various operational benefits, but they also carry serious risks, such as fire hazards and the potential for electrical conductivity if the battery experiences a fault.

The RSSB mandates the following to help mitigate these risks:

• Use only non-conductive, fire-resistant materials in and around battery storage and access areas
• Install non-sparking platforms and walkways to reduce the risk of ignition
• Ensure adequate fire separation between battery areas and other operational zones to help contain potential incidents
• Include clearly defined maintenance zones and access protocols to ensure safe working conditions

Worried that your current access solutions might not meet the new RSSB guidance? There’s one single material that can help you comply with these new rail depot safety measures – and the best news is, it won’t cost the earth to install…

Why GRP is a safe choice for battery depots

Glass Reinforced Plastic (GRP) is naturally non-conductive, non-corrosive, and non-sparking, making it the go-to material for battery handling areas. Unlike steel or aluminium, GRP doesn’t carry an electrical current, which is a critical factor when your staff are working around high-voltage battery systems.

We offer an extensive range of GRP products to make your battery depot safer than ever before:

• Our GRP access platforms provide safe access to elevated battery units and control zones, with zero risk of electrical conduction
• Our anti-slip GRP grating is ideal for creating safe walkways and flooring that won’t spark or corrode, even in harsh railway environments
• Our GRP handrails allow you to construct fully protected access zones that meet the latest RSSB standards

Whether you’re upgrading existing infrastructure or designing new layouts, our modular GRP access solutions can help you comply with the RSSB’s updated technical notes and protect your staff members from electrocution.

Trusted by rail operators across the UK

We’ve been supplying innovative GRP solutions to rail contractors and depot operators across the UK for almost a decade. Our team understands the real-world pressures that battery depots face, and that downtime is not an option. That’s why all our systems are delivered with a fast turnaround and are easy to install, helping to keep your depot running smoothly, without compromising on safety. 

Just take a look at the work we completed with Great Western Railway and Network Rail in Penzance. We supplied and installed a wide range of GRP products, including our modular handrails, grating, access platforms, palisade fencing, and access ramps, to provide safe access for their train crews. Our systems were able to fulfill the evolving needs of the yard, while still meeting all the necessary rail depot safety regulations. 

Discover more about how our GRP railway platforms enhance depot safety in our dedicated blog post.

Ready to future-proof your battery depot?

If you’re managing a depot with lithium-ion battery systems, now is the perfect time to assess the safety of your setup. At Ezi Klamp, we understand the challenges that the latest RSSB guidelines bring, and we’re ready to help you address them head-on. With our GRP platforms, grating, and handrails, you can meet the new standards with confidence, and create a safer, more compliant working environment for your team.

Contact our expert team today to discuss your next project. We’re confident that we can help you find the perfect GRP access solution for your site.