Creating adaptable access solutions for safer rail maintenance operations
Maintaining diesel locomotives safely requires access equipment that can adapt to a wide variety of vehicle types and maintenance tasks. Off-the-shelf solutions are not always suitable, particularly where flexibility, operator protection and efficient maintenance are essential.
Working with the Severn Valley Railway TMD team, Alto Access Products developed a bespoke engine bay access solution designed to improve safety and flexibility for operatives carrying out maintenance across a range of diesel locomotives.
The Challenge
Diesel traction maintenance requires safe and reliable access to engine and traction bays, but locomotive designs can vary significantly. A solution was required that could adapt to different vehicle types while providing stable, protected working platforms for maintenance personnel.
The objective was to create an access system that offered maximum flexibility without compromising operator safety or ease of use.
The Solution
Alto designed and manufactured a pair of handed engine bay access stands that can be used independently or coupled together to provide extended coverage when required.
The flexible design enables maintenance teams to configure the equipment to suit different locomotive layouts and maintenance activities, helping maximise both protection and operational efficiency.
Key Features:
• Handed access stands for flexible configurations
• Can be used individually or coupled together
• Adjustable legs for accurate levelling
• Braked castor wheels for safe positioning and controlled movement
• Self-closing, latched safety gates
• Fully guard railed working platforms
• Integrated compliant stair access
Benefits for the Customer
The completed solution provides a number of practical benefits for maintenance teams, including:
• A flexible access system suitable for a wide range of diesel locomotive types
• Improved protection for operatives working within engine bays
• Increased utilisation through adaptable stand configurations
• Greater efficiency by reducing the need for multiple dedicated access platforms
• A safer and more practical working environment for routine maintenance activities
By developing a solution around the operational requirements of the Severn Valley Railway TMD team, Alto delivered equipment that can adapt to changing maintenance demands while supporting safe working practices.
The Outcome
The flexible engine bay access solution has since been adopted by other rail operators, demonstrating the wider value of a bespoke approach to rail maintenance access.
The project highlights Alto Access Products' ability to work collaboratively with customers to design practical engineering solutions that address real operational challenges and deliver long-term value.
Looking for a bespoke rail access solution?
Alto Access Products designs and manufactures bespoke access equipment for rail depots, maintenance facilities and infrastructure projects across the UK.
Whether you require locomotive access platforms, engine bay access equipment or a fully customised maintenance solution, our experienced engineering team can help develop an access system tailored to your operational requirements.
Contact Alto Access Products to discuss your next rail access project.
