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Oldham Tram Station, Manchester, UK

Fibrelite’s lightweight composite covers eliminate manual handling issues at Oldham’s tram station

Project overview

Tram platforms are very busy areas where safety and efficiency is key. The frequent need to access underground utilities in these highly trafficked areas means that a time saving solution and safe walking surface is essential. Here, Fibrelite provided a safe solution for Oldham’s Metrolink.

Problem

Originally, concrete recess covers had been fitted on Oldham’s Metrolink platform over essential utilities. Due to their weight, the covers were very difficult to remove and replace, causing manual handling risks for operators. Specialized Specialised lifting equipment was required, making the process expensive and time-consuming. Oldham were looking for a simple replacement that would increase efficiency and safety and could be installed with minimal disruption to the platform. The covers also needed to be securable to prevent unauthorized unauthorised access to live electric cables.

The previously installed heavy concrete covers
Fibrelite’s lightweight securable composite covers

Solution

Fibrelite designed and manufactured bespoke composite covers to fit directly into the existing frames making installation quick and easy. This enabled the tram station to remain open while covers were fitted, minimizing minimising disruption. Fibrelite covers are corrosion-free; lightweight and securable, and can be safely removed and replaced by two people using the ergonomically designed FL7 lifting handle, preventing manual handling injuries by lifting from the waist. Fibrelite covers have been engineered to provide a safe walking and driving surface, tested to be equivalent to a modern high-grade road surface. The customer opted for covers in a custom gray grey color colour to complement the surrounding area.

Results

Oldham station now has a long-term solution that requires minimal maintenance and will continue to perform year after year, allowing safe and fast authorized authorised access whilst eliminating previous manual handling issues and providing a safe walking surface for station users in all weather conditions.

Fibrelite covers provide a safe walking surface in all weather conditions

Author:

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David Holmes

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