Specialist Rail-Mounted Tunnel Platforms to Toronto

We have successfully supplied a series of bespoke rail-mounted access platforms to the Toronto rail system in Canada for use within its underground tunnel network. The platforms have been specifically designed for safe maintenance access within live rail environments. Manufactured primarily from GRP (Glass Reinforced Plastic), the structures are electrically insulated, a critical safety requirement for working in close proximity to rail infrastructure and signalling systems.

Finished in high-visibility rail safety orange, the platforms ensure maximum visibility within the low-light conditions typical of underground tunnels. One of the defining features of the units is a cantilevered platform, allowing engineers to safely reach tunnel walls and infrastructure directly from the track position without the need to step off onto ballast or walkways. This dramatically improves both safety and efficiency during inspection and maintenance operations.

The platforms run on rail wheels and are designed with a default braked position, ensuring that the unit remains securely stationary unless intentionally moved by operators. This fail-safe design is particularly important in tunnel environments where gradients or vibrations could otherwise lead to unintended movement. From an engineering standpoint, the project presented several challenges. In addition to the specialist GRP construction and tunnel-specific access requirements, the rail gauge in Canada is wider than the standard UK gauge, requiring the platforms to be designed specifically for their network. There were also practical project management considerations. Coordinating design, manufacturing and technical discussions across the five-hour time difference between the UK and Canada required careful planning and flexibility from both teams.

Despite these challenges, the collaboration proved highly successful. The finished platforms combine robust engineering, rail safety compliance, and practical tunnel access, providing TTC maintenance teams with a purpose-built solution for working safely within their underground infrastructure.

Our Paul Wrack comments:
“Projects like this demonstrate our ability to design and deliver highly specialised access solutions for complex rail environments. The combination of GRP insulation, cantilevered access and rail-mounted mobility makes these platforms particularly well suited to tunnel work, and we’re proud to support our Canadian partners with this equipment. This Toronto project continues our growing international presence in the rail and transport infrastructure sector, where bespoke engineering and safety-focused design remain at the heart of what we do”.

Images show trainings session taking place prior to tunnel work commencing. Please click on image to enlarge and see more