Fencing & Hi-Vis Concrete Ballast Installation for Landscape Development in Hereford

Project Overview:

SafeSite Facilities were tasked with the installation of 245 x Heavy Duty Round Top Anti-Climb Fencing Panels with feet and stabilisers, providing temporary perimeter control for our clients landscape development. This included the creation of a new lake, the planting of trees, and the introduction of various vegetation aimed at enhancing the park’s biodiversity and encouraging local wildlife.

Primary Objective:

The primary objectives of the installation were to secure the site from unauthorised access, while providing a clear and visible boundary to keep the work area separate from the public. The project also required a quick installation to meet tight deadlines and compliance with UK Health & Safety regulations, ensuring a safe environment for both the workforce and the public. Additionally, pedestrian access points needed to be carefully managed to facilitate safe passage for authorised site personnel.

The site was mainly grassland with minor undulations, which required careful preparation to ensure the stability of the fencing panels. As the project involved temporary works, there was no permanent infrastructure on-site, which meant the fencing had to be a 100% temporary solution. One important consideration was the presence of a public footpath running along one side of the site, requiring particular attention to the safety and security of the surrounding area.

Solution:

To meet the needs of this project, Heras temporary fencing panels were chosen for their flexibility, strength, and ease of installation. Each panel measured 3.5 metres in length and 2 metres in height, constructed from a galvanised steel frame with anti-climb mesh for added security. The panels were supported by rubber feet to protect the underlying surface and were connected using metal couplers to ensure structural stability. Reinforcement was provided by stabiliser bars and ballast blocks to withstand adverse weather conditions, particularly wind. To allow for safe access, a 5-metre-wide double vehicle gate was installed, enabling the movement of construction vehicles and machinery without compromising the security of the site.

Timeline:

The installation process began with the delivery of the fencing panels, which were transported on one of our articulated lorries. A forklift was used to unload and position the panels, and ground preparation was carried out to ensure the area was ready for the fencing layout. A two-person installation crew was assigned to set up the panels, ensuring the process was efficient and timely. As required by Health & Safety regulations, appropriate signage was placed, and a thorough safety inspection was conducted before work commenced.

Challenges & Mitigation

Throughout the installation, several challenges were encountered, all of which were effectively mitigated through careful planning and adjustments. One of the main issues was the wind load on the panels. To address this, stabiliser bars and two hi vis concrete ballast blocks were added to every panel, ensuring the fencing remained secure even in windy conditions. Additionally, the site involved working alongside heavy machinery, including diggers, so a Traffic Marshall was assigned to manage vehicle movements and ensure the safety of pedestrians. The uneven ground posed another challenge, but this was overcome by using extra panels to ensure the fencing remained level and stable.

Conclusion

The installation of Heras temporary fencing proved to be an ideal solution for this large-scale, short-term landscape development project. The fencing offered the flexibility needed for a temporary setup, with the added benefit of being easy to transport and store. The combination of galvanized steel frames, stabiliser bars, and ballast blocks ensured a high level of security and safety throughout the project’s duration. By providing clear boundaries and secure access points, the fencing successfully met the project’s needs and ensured public safety, a happy client and the smooth progress of the landscaping work.