Flinders Link - ISA
Challenge
To provide independent assessment of the safety activities conducted throughout the entire lifecycle of $141m Flinders Link project, ensuring that safety risks were properly identified and managed So Far As Is Reasonably Practicable (SFAIRP) during the operation and maintenance of the system.
Approach
Acmena conducted a review of the key safety documentation supporting the project safety argument, including a review of safety plans, hazard logs, safety requirements and safety assurance reports. Using a multi-disciplined approach, Acmena also provided independent assessment of the Human Factors Integration Plan and further HF analysis.
Outcome
By leveraging its in-depth knowledge of ONRSR regulations, CENELEC standards and iESM assurance principles, Acmena was able to provide effective ISA support, delivering ten safety notices which enabled the client to successfully deliver the project.
Acmena provides independent safety assessment services to support the completion of Adelaide’s Flinders Link rail project.
Jointly funded by the Federal and South Australian governments, the $141m Flinders Link project extended the Tonsley rail line to the Flinders Medical Centre, creating new connections to the health, innovation and education precincts. Featuring 650m of new railway, including an elevated single-track section and integrated cycle/pedestrian pathway, the project also involved the construction of two new stations.
In 2019, Acmena was contracted by Laing O’Rourke to provide an independent assessment of the safety activities conducted throughout the project lifecycle and ensure that safety risks were properly identified and managed So Far As Is Reasonably Practicable (SFAIRP) during the operation and maintenance of the system.
A multi-discipline approach
To support the development and completion of the project, including the extension of Adelaide’s signalling and ETCS Level 1 systems, Acmena conducted an independent review of the key documents supporting the safety argument. This included the review and assessment of project safety plans, hazard logs, safety requirements and safety assurance reports. In addition, a desktop audit was performed on various project elements, including competency, safety requirements compliance evidence and other documents before delivery of the final ISA report.
Leveraging Acmena’s ability to provide integrated, multi-discipline support, Acmena’s human factors team also provided an assessment of the project Human Factors Integration Plan (HFIP) in addition to an HF analysis that integrated into the project safety assurance documentation.
Delivering pragmatic, proportional support
Applying its experience on complex rail infrastructure projects and in-depth knowledge of ONRSR regulations, CENELEC standards (EN50126) and International Engineering Safety Management (iESM) principles, Acmena was able to provide effective ISA support to the project. In total, Acmena’s findings resulted in ten safety notices, which were delivered to the client and enabled the timely implementation of corrective measures.
“Acmena’s efforts and support enabled the project to achieve a very successful outcome, including the confidence of the client,” said Laing O’ Rourke Systems and Safety Lead, Christina Hindmarch. “The Flinders assurance program was recognised as an example to other DIT projects, which was underpinned by Acmena’s service.
“Acmena’s approach was both collaborative and pragmatic. Their personnel were easy to work with and displayed high level of professionalism. Most importantly Acmena provided more than a process check and ensured the focus was on safety. They also ensured that the level of effort expended in the assessment was proportional to the level of risk.”
The Flinders Link project was completed in December 2020 and is now operational.
Related Content:
Expertise
Safety Assurance