The challenge

The Colne Valley Viaduct is one of the most significant structures within the HS2 programme and represents a landmark project in UK rail infrastructure. Align JV required a fully compliant HS2 handrail system that met stringent design standards while supporting safe working practices across the construction site.

As a major infrastructure project, the handrail solution needed to satisfy demanding specification requirements, provide reliable edge protection, and be practical to install within a complex construction environment. The project required a supplier with the technical capability to deliver a compliant solution while also identifying opportunities for design optimisation and cost savings.

Following an initial review of the proposed design, it became clear there was an opportunity to improve the specification and reduce material requirements without compromising safety, compliance, or performance.

Could we provide a value-engineered construction site handrail system that met HS2 standards while reducing costs and improving installation efficiency?

Our solution

After being approached by Align JV in mid-2023, our team worked closely with project stakeholders to fully understand the design requirements for the Colne Valley Viaduct.

Following the tender process, we were awarded the project based on our expertise in designing and supplying compliant handrail systems for complex infrastructure applications. Rather than simply supplying the original specification, we undertook a detailed design review to identify opportunities for improvement.

Working in collaboration with the client, we redesigned the handrail package and completed a comprehensive material take-off. This value-engineering exercise reduced material requirements while maintaining full compliance with HS2 design standards, generating an estimated saving of approximately £20,000 for Align JV.

To further improve installation efficiency, Align requested that all handrail posts be supplied pre-assembled. We incorporated this requirement into the project, delivering a ready-to-install solution that reduced assembly work on site and helped accelerate installation.

Following the first sample delivery, our technical team attended site to demonstrate the installation process and provide practical support to site personnel. During these visits, we helped resolve several installation challenges and ensured the system met project requirements from the outset.

This collaborative approach enabled the project team to benefit from both a high-quality infrastructure handrail solution and ongoing technical support throughout the installation process.