Project Overview
The TTS Engineering Utilities Department completed a GRP flooring installation project in response to a health and safety improvement requirement. The project aimed to remove a potential fall hazard and create a safer working environment for personnel.
The existing area required additional protection to reduce the risk of slips, trips and falls. To address this, the team designed and installed a new elevated GRP flooring system supported by a fabricated steel sub-frame.
The project was completed within a two-day programme, minimising disruption while delivering an immediate safety improvement to the operational area.
Project Objective
Eliminating a Fall Risk
The primary objective was to remove a potential fall hazard identified within the work area. The new flooring system needed to provide a safe and stable walking surface while integrating with the existing concrete structure.
Providing a Long-Term Solution
The installation also needed to provide a durable and low-maintenance solution suitable for an industrial environment. GRP flooring offered a robust alternative while improving accessibility and personnel safety.
Maintaining Operational Access
In addition, the team needed to ensure the finished flooring sat level with the surrounding area. This would remove trip hazards and provide a smooth transition for personnel moving through the workspace.
Project Detail
Steel Sub-Frame Installation
The team first established a steel support structure to carry the new GRP flooring. They fabricated the frame using 75 x 50 x 6 mm steel angle and completed the assembly using MIG solid wire welding.
Support Fixings and Anchoring
Once the frame had been fabricated, the team installed and secured the support structure using anchor fixings. Correct positioning and anchoring were essential to ensure the frame provided adequate support for the new flooring system.
GRP Flooring Installation
After completing the support structure, the team installed the GRP flooring in multiple sections. This approach allowed the installation to be completed efficiently while ensuring the flooring remained securely supported across the entire area.
Overcoming Site Challenges
One of the project’s main challenges involved the quality of the existing concrete, which presented difficulties when installing the support fixings. The team carefully assessed the fixing locations and ensured the anchor bolts achieved a secure and reliable connection.
A further challenge involved achieving the correct finished height. The new GRP flooring needed to sit level with the surrounding concrete surface. To achieve this, the team adjusted the sub-frame installation to accommodate variations in height and ensure a consistent finish throughout the area.
Project Outcome
The project successfully removed the identified fall hazard and delivered an improved walking surface for personnel. The completed GRP flooring installation provides a safer working environment while maintaining access throughout the area.
Completed within the planned two-day programme, the project demonstrates TTS Engineering’s ability to deliver practical safety improvements through a combination of steel fabrication, structural installation and site-based problem solving.
