Project Objective:
The goal was to enhance the safety and accessibility of the walking route used by rail contractors working along the railway tracks at Cannon Street, Croydon. This required addressing the hazardous conditions that contractors faced on a daily basis, ensuring that they could perform their duties without compromising safety.

Challenges:

1. Difficult Terrain:
   The existing route required workers to clamber up a steep embankment, a task made even more difficult by the presence of a retaining wall. This combination of uneven ground and obstacles posed a significant risk of slips, trips, and falls.
2. Dense Vegetation:
   The path was overgrown with dense vegetation, including trees and bushes, which not only restricted visibility but also made it difficult for workers to access critical signals and points along the track. This added to the time and effort required to navigate the area safely.
3. Hazardous Sidestep:
   A poorly placed sidestep forced workers to step dangerously close to the trackside, increasing the risk of accidents. This sidestep was a major safety concern, as it brought workers into close proximity to moving trains.

Solution:

Ezi Klamp was enlisted by Sunville Rail to design and implement a bespoke solution that would mitigate these hazards and provide a safe, reliable route for rail contractors. The solution utilized Glass Reinforced Plastic (GRP) materials, chosen for their durability, lightweight nature, and non-conductive properties, which are ideal for railway environments. The key elements of the solution included:

1. GRP Access Steps:
   Custom-designed GRP steps were fabricated to create a safe and stable route up the embankment. These steps were specifically tailored to the terrain, ensuring a secure footing even in wet or slippery conditions. The steps also provided a direct and obstacle-free path to the retaining wall, significantly reducing the risk of falls.
2. GRP Platform:
   A GRP platform was constructed to navigate around the problematic sidestep, completely eliminating the need for workers to step onto the trackside. This platform was designed to seamlessly integrate with the existing infrastructure while providing a safe and level walking surface.
3. Handrail System:
   To further enhance safety, a robust handrail system was installed alongside the GRP steps and platform. This handrail not only provided additional support for workers as they ascended the embankment but also served as a clear boundary, guiding them along the safe route and preventing accidental incursions onto the trackside.

Project Timeline: From Drawing Approval to Site Delivery

Once the designs were finalised and approved, the entire fabrication and delivery process took only 1 – 2 weeks. This swift turnaround was crucial in minimizing downtime and ensuring that the improved access route was available for use as soon as possible.

Outcome:

The implementation of Ezi Klamp’s GRP solution significantly improved the safety and accessibility of the walking route at Cannon Street, Croydon. Workers can now navigate the area with confidence, knowing that the risks associated with the previous route have been effectively mitigated. The project highlights the importance of tailored safety solutions in high-risk environments and underscores Ezi Klamp’s expertise in delivering effective, durable, and innovative access solutions for the rail industry