Avoiding major civil works with a modular access solution in Mildura
✔ Two safe egress routes
✔ Zero retaining walls
✔ Significant cost savings
Clean Peak Energy develops and manages distributed energy assets across Australia. Their projects demand repeatable safety, clear maintenance access, and efficient delivery, especially on operational or community-adjacent sites.
Location: Mildura, Victoria
Duration: ~8 weeks (from design to installation)
Scope: Prefabricated modular maintenance platform with guardrails, dual entry/exit stairs with integrated handrails, localised footings, and compliant switchboard access clearances.
The Project
Workplace Defender were engaged to review access requirements for a new battery and switchboard installation in Mildura, Victoria.
On paper, the problem looked expensive. The equipment sat on sloping ground, close to neighbouring residential properties, and required:
- compliant switchboard access clearances
- two safe egress paths
- adherence to AS1657 for platforms, stairs, and guardrails
The assumed solution? Extensive earthworks, retaining walls, and heavy civil construction.
The actual question we asked instead was simpler: What is the safest, most practical way to achieve compliance without overspending on civil works
The Challenge
From a facilities and asset management perspective, the site presented several competing pressures:
- Sloped terrain that made traditional platforms difficult
- Residential neighbours requiring low noise, low disruption works
- A remote location (8 hours from Melbourne) where inefficiency quickly increases cost
- Strict electrical access clearance requirements
- A requirement for two compliant egress routes
Our Solution
We developed a modular access platform solution that worked with the site. This eliminated the need for retaining walls entirely.
Smart Design Approach
We prefabricated the entire system in Melbourne as hand-manageable modules. This approach offered several advantages:
- Modular construction: All components are sized for manual handling and rapid on-site assembly.
- Minimal groundwork: Hand-excavated localised footings suited the sloped site without extensive excavation.
Optimised access
We worked with the client to modify the switchboard door configuration from single swing to double swing, achieving the required clearances more efficiently
Built-in compliance: AS1657 requirements integrated into the design, including proper handrail diameter (≥30mm), clearances (≥60mm), and spacing (550-750mm).
Efficient Installation
The modular approach delivered impressive installation efficiency:
- Standard trailer transport for all components.
- The two-person crew completed the installation in just two days
- Manual lifting and positioning eliminated the need for heavy machinery
- Minimal disruption to nearby residents and ongoing operations.
Results Delivered
- Compliance achieved: Full adherence to switchboard access clearances and AS1657 platform, handrail, and stair requirements.
- Cost and time savings: Eliminated expensive retaining walls and extensive groundwork while reducing installation time.
- Minimal disruption: Quick installation, low noise levels, and clean hand-dug footings kept neighbours happy.
- Enhanced safety: Two compliant egress routes with safe circulation around all equipment for maintenance technicians.
Technical Specifications
Platform System:
- Maintenance platform with integrated guardrails
- Dual stairways with integrated handrails
- Hand-manageable module sizing for efficient transport and installation
Foundation:
- Localised, hand-excavated footings designed for sloped terrain
- Minimal civil works approach
Compliance Standards:
- AS1657 for platforms, guardrails, and stairs
- Electrical switchboard access clearance requirements
- Dual egress safety provisions
Why This Approach Works
Industrial energy projects often face challenging terrain and tight operational windows. Our prefabricated, modular access systems provide:
- Cost control by avoiding unnecessary civil works
- Reduced downtime through faster installation
- Reliable compliance with AS1657 and electrical access standards
- Scalable solutions that can be adapted to various site conditions.
Contact Us
Need help solving a tricky access or height safety problem at your site?
Let’s talk about a smarter way forward.