Alstom Central Rivers Depot – GRP Gantries & Access Solutions

Client: Adler & Allan

Location: Alstom Central Rivers Depot in Burton-on-Trent

Sector: Rail Infrastructure

Products: GRP Platforms, GRP Gantries with Access Steps, GRP Handrails and GRP Safety Gates

The challenge

Adler & Allan were tasked with improving the access to collision control separator tanks at the Alstom Central Rivers Depot. The environment posed a unique challenge in terms of access, and they required a robust yet lightweight solution that could withstand the harsh depot conditions, while also providing operatives with safe and reliable access to critical equipment.

Adler & Allan had previously worked with our GRP specialist Dave Mooney, who brought over 26 years of hands-on experience to the table. They trusted him deeply, so when Dave joined Modsafe in July 2024, it was a natural next step for them to follow his lead. Even though we weren’t the cheapest option on the table, they chose to work with us because they had confidence that Dave, and Modsafe, would deliver.

So, did we live up to Adler & Allan’s expectations?

Our solution

As soon as the enquiry from Adler & Allan came in, we hit the ground running. Four of our GRP experts visited their site within a matter of days to carry out a full technical evaluation. We then worked closely with them to design, fabricate, and deliver the following:

• Custom-built GRP gantries to provide their team with safe, elevated access to the separator tanks
• Slip-resistant GRP access platforms that were fabricated to their exact requirements
• Integrated GRP handrail systems to prevent slips, trips, and falls 
• Secure GRP access steps and safety gates for ease of movement and access control around the site

From the initial concept through to the final installation, Adler & Allan required a rapid delivery process. Each GRP component we provided was designed with rapid assembly in mind, allowing for a smooth installation process; even when the usual snags arose. 

The outcome

Adler & Allan were extremely impressed not only with the quality of our GRP rail depot access solutions, but with the standard of service we provided. We delivered our products to site with a quick turnaround, so that their team could soon gain safe, long-term access to the separator tanks. Our team responded swiftly and efficiently to any issues, ensuring minimal disruption to the depot’s daily operations.  

Lee Haggan, Head of Civil Engineering at Adler & Allan: “Overall, the installation service from ModSafe was very good. The on-site delivery team worked alongside our in-house team to install the systems very quickly but also in a safe manner. I would not hesitate in recommending ModSafe to anyone else who needs GRP platforms.”