At SafeSmart Access, we’ve enhanced our leading-edge protection system, Non-Drill, with new face-mounted components. This innovation was crucial in addressing the challenge of providing edge protection around a 9-metre deep pit at the site in Cranbourne West. Partnering with a Tier 1 civil contractor, we developed a custom solution that secured the area without drilling into the newly poured concrete, and allowing for the floor slab to be poured up to the pit with the edge protection still in place.
Strategic Context
The Evans Road project is part of the larger Cranbourne West Precinct Structure Plan (PSP), a comprehensive urban development strategy prepared by the City of Casey. This plan, in alignment with the Victorian Government’s Melbourne 2030 initiative, aims to create a well-serviced, socially equitable neighbourhood with a blend of residential, commercial, and industrial areas. The PSP emphasises sustainable development, early access to infrastructure, and the creation of a cohesive community integrated with green spaces and efficient transport links.
The Cranbourne West area, with its strategic location and access to major transport corridors such as the Western Port Highway and Thompsons Road, is poised to become a significant hub for both residential and industrial growth. This innovative development is expected to enhance employment opportunities and provide a diverse range of housing options, contributing to the region’s economic vitality and social fabric.
Solution
SafeSmart Access’ temporary works design team, after a comprehensive consultation and evaluation period with the contractor, proposed the Non-Drill Face-Mounted Edge Protection System. This innovative approach utilises posts that attach directly to embedded M16 ferrules, avoiding the need for drilling and potential damage to newly poured concrete. Furthermore, this system eliminates the silica dust risk which comes with post fixing into concrete.
The modified system’s design also included custom gates for access, facilitating the integration of SafeSmart’s Adjustastairs down to the bench level within the pit. This setup allowed for the safe, efficient movement of personnel and materials, ensuring both workflow continuity and adherence to stringent safety standards.
Product & Commercial Proposal
We submitted a detailed proposal outlining the specifications and installation procedures of the Non-Drill system. Our engineering team leveraged their extensive knowledge to adapt our standard components into face-mounted components for compliance with AS4994.1 standards. The proposal also included a clear cost breakdown and timeline, ensuring it aligned with the project’s budget and schedule.
SafeSmart Access highlighted the benefits of its Non-Drill system, which included:
- Expedited installation as the system did not require drilling, significantly reducing time and labour costs associated with traditional edge protection methods.
- Reduced damage and silica dust risk by avoiding drilling, helping preserve the structural integrity of the concrete surfaces and reinforcement elements.
- Compliance assurance with the Non-Drill system fully meeting AS4994.1:2009 standards, ensuring high levels of safety and reliability.
Delivery
Our delivery phase included prompt procurement and pre-assembly of components, aligned with the construction timeline. Crews on site efficiently mounted posts to the M16 ferrules and fitted the gates for AdjustaStairs, with on-site supervision ensuring adherence to our strict safety and quality standards.
Through Life Support
We are committed to through life support, offering ongoing maintenance, inspections, and necessary adjustments to ensure the edge protection system maintains safety standards throughout the construction phase. Our team conducted regular catch-ups post-installation and offered a training program for site personnel, ensuring proper use and maintenance of the Non-Drill system until the permanent guardrails were installed.
Results
The implementation of our Non-Drill Face-Mounted Edge Protection System at the Evans Road site has been a success. Our system has significantly improved site safety and workflow efficiency, aligning perfectly with the project’s schedule and budget.
Our ongoing commitment ensures that the edge protection system remains in top condition, maintaining the highest safety standards as the Cranbourne West Precinct Structure Plan progresses.
The Evans Road project is now a benchmark for similar future projects where face-mounted systems can provide solutions to unique site challenges. We now offer face-mounted edge protection for the Non-Drill system as another offering for our customers to conquer edge protection challenges.
Get in touch with the expert team at SafeSmart Access.
