GRP Railway Platforms
Non-conductive access platforms for live rail environments
PJNC designed and supplied bespoke GRP railway platforms to provide safe access within live rail environments. The platforms were developed to operate in electrically sensitive and exposed outdoor conditions while meeting the requirements of UK rail infrastructure standards.
Project Requirement
Safe access platforms were required for use within a railway environment where high-voltage systems, live operations and restricted access conditions were present. The platforms needed to provide secure footing, reliable structural performance and long-term durability in outdoor rail settings.
Compliance with Network Rail and relevant British Standards was a critical requirement, alongside the need for a solution suitable for installation and use in operational rail corridors.
The GRP Solution
Glass Reinforced Polymer (GRP) was selected as a suitable material due to its non-conductive properties and suitability for use near electrified rail systems. GRP provided a safe alternative to traditional metallic materials while remaining appropriate for long-term outdoor exposure.
A bespoke GRP railway platform system was developed to suit the specific access requirements of the rail environment, with configurations adapted to site constraints and operational needs.
Key Design & Engineering Considerations
The railway platforms were engineered to deliver safe, compliant access while operating within the constraints of live rail infrastructure.
Key design considerations included:
- Compliance with Network Rail and relevant British Standards
- Non-conductive construction for use in high-voltage environments
- Structural performance suitable for rail access applications
- Slip-resistant surfaces for outdoor and exposed locations
Fire-retardant GRP options were incorporated where required to support safety and compliance objectives.
Fabrication & Installation
The GRP platform components were manufactured off site and supplied in modular sections to suit rail access and installation constraints. This approach supported efficient handling and reduced installation time within operational rail environments.
On site, the platforms were assembled and installed in accordance with rail safety requirements, enabling controlled installation with minimal disruption to rail operations.
Performance & Suitability
The completed GRP railway platforms provide durable, non-conductive access solutions suitable for long-term use within rail infrastructure. Their resistance to corrosion and low maintenance requirements make them well suited to exposed outdoor environments and ongoing operational use.
Discuss a Non-Standard GRP Application
If your rail project requires compliant access platforms for electrified or operational environments, PJNC can provide technical guidance on a bespoke GRP solution.
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