Key takeaways:
Are you currently planning or delivering projects as part of the Great Grid Upgrade? Your substations, transformer bunds, cable routes, and utility compounds introduce several hazards that you’ll need to carefully manage throughout the project. GRP gives you a non-conductive, corrosion-resistant, and slip-resistant solution that performs well in high-voltage and harsh outdoor utility environments. At Ezi Klamp, we supply modular GRP platforms, trench covers, access steps, and pre-assembled step-overs that can be specifically tailored to your exact layout, helping to keep your workforce safe and reduce costly delays.
The Great Grid Upgrade is one of the most significant UK infrastructure programmes you’ll likely ever work on, with the National Grid investing £60 billion to fund 17 major onshore and offshore transmission programmes. As the new substations, overhead lines, cable routes, and grid connections are being developed, you’ll need to think carefully about how your teams will move around safely during construction and beyond.
At Ezi Klamp, we can help support you with specially-designed GRP access solutions for your utilities, rail, water, or power environment. Our systems deliver outstanding performance in high-risk environments, helping to keep your workforce safe and minimise costly disruptions. Here’s everything you need to know about our Great Grid-ready access solutions.
The benefits of GRP for utility and substation sites
GRP offers a wide range of practical benefits that help you create safer, more efficient working environments. These include:
- Straightforward installation – GRP structures are much quicker and easier to install than steel, helping to reduce downtime and keep your project moving
- Non-conductive – GRP will not conduct electricity, making it safe to use around electrical infrastructure
- Corrosion-resistant – GRP will not rust or degrade when exposed to standing water, harsh weather conditions, or chemicals
- Little-to-no maintenance required – Unlike steel, GRP is exceptionally easy to maintain, with a guaranteed minimum lifespan of 25 years
- Slip resistant – GRP products feature slip-resistant surfaces with gritted flooring and treads to help improve underfoot safety
- Lightweight yet strong – GRP is up to 75% lighter than steel, while still providing the strength needed for demanding utility environments
Exploring Ezi Klamp’s leading GRP access solutions for utility projects
GRP flooring for trench covers
If your project involves trenches for cables, drainage, or services, then it’s vital that you put the right safety measures in place to minimise the risks of trips and falls. It can be difficult for your team to spot open or poorly covered trenches when they’re focused on the task at hand, which greatly increases the likelihood of accidents.
Our GRP grating offers a lightweight, durable, and slip-resistant alternative to traditional metal covers. You can use it to create safer crossing points, cover drainage channels, or improve access in areas that need regular inspection. Because GRP is easier to handle than steel alternatives, you can quickly install and remove the covers whenever access is required – helping to reduce downtime and keep your project moving.
GRP platforms for substations
Substations present several hazards, including raised plant, uneven levels, and bunded areas. Your team needs to be able to access these areas safely when they’re carrying out routine inspection or maintenance work, without fear of slips, trips, or exposure to electrical hazards.
Our GRP platforms give your team a stable working area, without introducing conductivity or electrical concerns. Our platforms are modular in nature, meaning they can be designed around your specific site requirements and access challenges. Whether you need a simple maintenance platform or a more complex structure with stairs, handrails, and gates, you can create an access system that fits your layout exactly.
GRP steps for transformer bunds
Transformed bunds, raised plinths, and uneven ground can create several access challenges, forcing your operatives to navigate awkward level changes and unstable footing where accidents can easily occur. It’s essential that you provide your team with a safe, clearly defined route between levels.
Our GRP access steps create a stable and secure route across your site to help your team navigate around critical infrastructure safely. Featuring anti-slip treads and the option for high-visibility nosings, our stairs help to reduce the risk of slips and trips during inspection and maintenance. You can specify steps to suit your site’s exact gradient, height, and access requirements, rather than relying on a one-size-fits-all solution.
GRP step overs for overground pipework
Overground pipes, cable trays, and service runs can quickly become trip hazards when they cut across the routes that your team uses for everyday inspections and maintenance tasks. To keep your personnel safe, you need to introduce purpose-built access solutions that clearly guide movement and reduce exposure to these hazards.
Our GRP step overs create a clear and protected crossing point for your operatives, helping to guide them away from obstacles and minimise the risk of falls. All our step overs can be supplied pre-assembled, making them quick and easy to install once they arrive on site. They’re also fully customisable and available in various heights, lengths, and designs to suit your requirements.
Ezi Klamp: your trusted access partner for the Great Grid Upgrade
Safe access plays a key role in the success of your Great Grid Upgrade projects. At Ezi Klamp, we’re here with you every step of the way to help you meet your safety obligations and keep your project moving without delays. From supplying industry-leading modular GRP access solutions to assisting with design and installation, we can help you create safer, longer-lasting access around your site that directly impacts how your team builds, inspects, and maintains critical infrastructure.
Get in touch to discuss your project requirements and we’ll help you find the right solution for your site.
FAQs
Why is GRP useful for substation access?
GRP offers a non-conductive, corrosion-resistant, and slip-resistant solution, making it ideal for substation environments where electrical safety and secure footing are important.
Can GRP be used for trench covers?
Yes, you can use GRP flooring for trench covers, drainage covers, and safe crossing points. This helps you reduce trip risks, while giving you a lightweight, durable alternative to steel covers.
What are GRP step overs used for on utility sites?
GRP step overs are used on utility sites to create safe crossing points over pipes, cable routes, and other overground services that could otherwise become trip hazards for your team.
Are GRP access structures suitable for outdoor environments?
Yes, GRP is designed to withstand harsh outdoor conditions and won’t rust when exposed to heavy rain or chemicals, making it a reliable choice for your utility, rail, water, or power site.