Fast-moving traffic along Rugby Road resulted in two incidents that damaged the concrete stairs used by engineers to access the track.

Road closures were required in order to recast and slab the concrete stairs, which took several days and incurred high costs for Network Rail.

Firstly, one of our engineers visited the location to assess the situation and propose a better access solution. Designs for a prefabricated GRP staircase were then raised, based on the site survey. Waux worked closely with Network Rail to adjust the drawings until they were ready for sign-off.

Once approved by Network Rail, Waux fabrication team worked to the drawings to construct a bespoke staircase from our stock of E23 Grade GRP components.

The access structure was manufactured in our workshop then delivered to site in prefabricated units. This required minimal installation, saving time onsite and minimising the duration of the road closure.

Now the stairs are well lit, with high-visibility yellow handrails to contribute to the prevention of further incidents.

In the unfortunate event of another accident, there will be less likelihood of a fatality due to lightweight material being used for the staircase. Waux will also be able to rapidly remanufacture another staircase from our standard components if any damage occurs.

These benefits are why Network Rail are increasingly using Waux GRP Access Structures to improve the safety of their assets and track engineers.