Case Study: Concrete Barrier Supply for Macdonaldtown Remediation Project
Project:
Gasworks Remediation – Macdonaldtown, NSW
Client:
Thiess Contractors (now Ventia)
Barrier System:
Deltabloc DB80 with Anti-Debris Screens
Installed:
October 2014
Total Length:
312 metres
Project Overview
Workzone Solutions provided over 300 meters of concrete crash barriers to aid in significant environmental cleanup efforts at a former gasworks site in Sydney’s inner west.
The Macdonaldtown Gasworks, which operated from the late 1800s until the mid-20th century, left a legacy of considerable contamination in the surrounding soil and groundwater. In 2014, RailCorp, the landowner, kicked off a major cleanup initiative to safely restore the area.
This project demanded a secure and controlled environment, with a clear separation between construction activities and the nearby rail corridor. To ensure safety and clarity, extensive perimeter screening and traffic delineation were essential to define the work zones effectively.
Site Conditions and Requirements
The remediation site spanned over 7,500 square meters near Erskineville. To keep the excavation work contained and manage airborne risks like dust and debris, a large weatherproof enclosure was constructed. While the operations didn’t disrupt nearby train services, the presence of site vehicles and heavy machinery necessitated strong traffic control measures around the access roads.
To address this concern, the project team opted for RMS-approved precast barriers. These barriers are designed to withstand high-speed impacts while providing both a visual and physical boundary around the active site.
Our Solution
After evaluating the cost benefits of hire versus purchase, Thiess decided to go ahead and purchase the barriers outright. Workzone Solutions delivered 312 meters of Deltabloc DB80 precast barriers, each measuring 6 meters long, and fully equipped with anti-debris screens.
These concrete crash barriers are built to withstand high-impact forces, rated for TL-3 conditions at speeds of up to 100 km/h. They have received approval from both Austroads and RMS, making them suitable for public roadways and infrastructure projects.
To increase privacy and control over environmental factors, galvanized mesh anti-debris screens were installed on top of each barrier. Additionally, shade cloth was added to help contain airborne materials. These screens meet the Australian Standard AS4687 and can be set up quickly using star posts, dynabolts, or fence pickets.
Project Outcome
Throughout the project, workers removed over 36,000 tonnes of hazardous material, including asbestos-contaminated soil. An additional 11,000 tonnes of waste were treated and made safe for disposal. The site was successfully remediated and now serves as a secure staging and storage area for Sydney Trains.
System Installed:
- 52 x Deltabloc DB80 Concrete Barriers (6m each)
- 52 x Anti-Debris Screens (1m high)
- Total installation: 312 metres
Installation Date: October 2014
