Bridge 12

LOCATION: Springfield, NZ

CLIENT: KiwiRail

INDUSTRY: Rail

Project Background

Bridge 12, located in Springfield, spans 205m. The bridge faced significant safety concerns due to its deteriorating timber walkway and handrail falling below the required height standards. This deterioration necessitated immediate attention to ensure the safety of Kiwirail teams working on the bridge.

The KiwiRail structures team based in Christchurch, reached out to Moddex seeking a compliant walkway and handrail system. To kick off the project, Moddex conducted a thorough site assessment, examining the project requirements and taking key site measurements. This on-site evaluation enabled us to pinpoint specific design needs tailored to KiwiRail’s requirements.

Subsequently, Moddex supplied our type-approved KlipTread Walkway & Handrail system to both sides of the bridge, totalling 410 meters in length. The bridge height was substantial, meaning Moddex had to supply the new walkway ahead of a re-sleeper fit out to provide for a working and compliant platform to work off whilst they re-sleepered the bridge. This was critical for safety and also saved Kiwirail time and cost on scaffolding.

The system was pretty simple and easy to install…was good having it there while re-sleepering [as it] saved erecting scaffold. — Zahn Hepi, Structures Team at KiwiRail

This collaboration shows Moddex’s dedication to providing safety-focused solutions for critical infrastructure projects, ensuring compliance and durability throughout the construction process. To streamline the installation process, the barriers were delivered in flatpack to the KiwiRail yard, facilitating easy transportation and client installation.

Navigating Design Challenges and Providing Strategic Solutions

Navigating non-standard sleeper spacings and varied girder styles presented a significant challenge in our design process. Moddex’s team revisited the site to ensure precise measurements and design accuracy, even conducting trial fitments for the Kliptread arms’ hooks. Customizing the sizing of these hooks, with two variants supplied, was imperative to maintain alignment with the diverse girder styles.

Long-term Safety Solution

The Moddex KlipTread Walkway & Handrail system serves as a long-term safety solution for Bridge 12, addressing the inherent risks posed by its considerable height, exposure to adverse weather conditions, and susceptibility to high winds. Given the bridge’s elevated position, ensuring the safety of personnel and users is paramount. By implementing the KlipTread system, which offers robust handrail support and secure walkway access, Moddex provides a durable and reliable safety measure to mitigate the risks associated with the bridge’s uenvironmental challenges.

What is the Moddex KlipTread Walkway & Handrail System?

The Moddex proprietary Kliptread™ System is a clip-on walkway system that ensures safety and compliance on bridges by allowing walkways and handrails to be specified and fitted effortlessly.

KlipTread™ has been specially designed and manufactured in partnership with KiwiRail for upgrades on existing bridge infrastructure that are no longer compliant due to changes in standards over the years, and/or due to deterioration of walkways under the harsh environment in which they are found.

Moddex Approved Supplier

With type approval on the KiwiRail network and available off-the-shelf as a fast-install, modular kitset, Kliptread has no need for specialist trades, scaffolding, drilling or hot works on site. Installs are now easier, many times faster and at a lower ongoing cost than previous custom engineered walkway solutions.