Client: VISY
Location: Adelaide
Challenge
VISY identified a high-risk area within its Adelaide facility where pedestrians and mobile plant operated in close proximity.
The existing tubular steel rail provided a visual separation between people and vehicles but offered limited protection in the event of an impact. After years of service, the railing showed clear signs of damage, highlighting the demands of the operating environment and reinforcing the need for a more robust, purpose-designed solution.
VISY wanted a barrier system that would provide certified impact protection, improve workplace safety and reduce the ongoing maintenance associated with damaged steel barriers.
Assessment
Working alongside the VISY team, we carried out a site assessment using our five-step safety design process to understand vehicle movements, pedestrian routes and the level of impact risk within the area.
Rather than simply replacing the existing railing with a similar product, we assessed how the space was being used and recommended a barrier system designed specifically for environments where pedestrians and heavy vehicles operate side by side. This ensured the solution matched the level of risk while supporting VISY’s long-term safety objectives.
Solution
A certified, energy-absorbing polymer barrier system was installed to provide a significantly higher level of protection for pedestrians.
Designed to flex and absorb impact energy, the barrier helps reduce the forces transferred to both the vehicle and the surrounding infrastructure, unlike traditional rigid steel railings that can bend, fail or require replacement after an impact. The certified system provides reliable separation between pedestrians and heavy machinery while offering greater durability in a demanding industrial environment.
Outcome
VISY now has a purpose-built barrier system that provides greater confidence in the safety of its people while reducing the likelihood of costly repairs and ongoing maintenance.
“[The barriers] were installed over the weekend and the photos speak for themselves. Thanks for all your assistance in getting the first part of the safety upgrade completed.”
— Jason Eglinton, Maintenance Manager at VISY
The project transformed a vulnerable area into a safer, more resilient workplace with protection engineered for the realities of a busy manufacturing facility. The successful installation has also provided a benchmark that can be shared across other VISY sites as future safety improvements are considered.
Images: VISY, Adelaide – Before (left); After (right).
