In Australia, where 4.4 million people—approximately one in six—live with a disability, public transport can be crucial for independence and engagement in daily activities. Yet, despite its importance, one-sixth of Australians aged 15 and older with a disability struggle with public transport accessibility.
Accessible public transport starts with how passengers can access public transport services, including infrastructure such as ramps, handrails and barriers that enable passengers to safely board and disembark.
There has been concerted effort in recent years from both state and federal governments to enhance accessibility through various funding and reform initiatives. To increase the accessibility of public transport, much of the existing networks require modification, which can be both expensive and time-consuming.
Off-site manufacturing, a method where components are prefabricated off-site before installation, offers a more efficient and cost-effective approach to addressing accessibility issues in Australia’s public transport systems.
Offsite manufacturing: Enhancing accessibility efficiently and cost-effectively
Prefabrication is versatile, allowing for the efficient production off-site of a wide range of systems and components, from entire rooms to structural elements like handrails and pathways.
While off-site manufacturing has been used in construction for decades, recent technological advancements have enhanced its efficiency, making it increasingly popular across a variety of construction projects.
The primary advantage of modular construction methods is fast turnaround times, meaning off-site manufacturing can be utilised to improve accessibility on public transport networks nationwide much faster than conventional methods of construction. By completing components off-site, the reduction in the amount of work that needs to be physically completed reduces significantly. Prefabrication can speed up the process by allowing elements of the project to be completed concurrently rather than consecutively – while the platform is being constructed onsite, any handrails, barriers or other components can be prefabricated at an off-site manufacturing facility.
Because it speeds up the construction process and allows for faster project delivery, off-site manufacturing is also a cost-saving option. Staying on budget is an essential consideration for all projects, however it is particularly important for an undertaking that includes many individual projects, as is the case with the number of outstanding public transport networks that require modification to comply with the Transport Standards.
Moddex: Your partner in accessible transport
Considering the time and cost benefits it offers, off-site manufacturing presents a practical solution for rapidly enhancing accessibility across public transport networks nationwide. For companies exploring this option, securing a reliable partner is a crucial first step.
Moddex is Australasia’s leading manufacturer of innovative barrier systems and pre-engineered handrail products for largescale infrastructure and non-residential construction projects. Their extensive range of handrails, barriers, commercial and industry balustrade and guardrail systems are specifically designed for a range of industrial, commercial and civil applications. As such, Moddex offers a variety of options that are perfectly suited to the accessible requirements of public transport networks.
Moddex understands that accessibility and inclusion are not just checklist items but are integral to innovative and marketable design. Designing for accessibility, mobility, and inclusivity goes beyond compliance with standards like AS1428 (Australia) and NZS 4121 (New Zealand); it involves creating intuitive, flexible, and accommodating spaces for all users. While navigating compliance and accessibility can be challenging, Moddex’s prefabricated systems are engineered to prioritize accessibility and safety while meeting even the strictest regulations.
Additionally, being prefabricated offsite, they are able to be completed much faster because our Moddex off-site manufacturing facilities specialise in producing high-quality components. It is our sole purpose, so we are optimised for efficiency and are well-equipped to meet tight deadlines. For an accessible tram stop modification, this means that the handrails or barriers can be ready and waiting for installation as soon as the platform construction is complete.
Accessibility in action with Moddex
As experts in accessibility and compliance, Moddex has extensive experience with projects that are designed to create a welcoming and inclusive environment that benefits everyone who uses the space, and importantly, enhances access for those who need accommodations.
Download the full guide on Off-Site Manufacturing for Public Transport here.
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