Large Data Centre - Eastern Creek

Temporary Edge Protection for One of Australia’s Largest Data Centre Projects – Eastern Creek, NSW

At Stronghold Hire, we are fortunate to work on a wide range of projects across Sydney, from residential developments and remedial works through to some of Australia’s most significant infrastructure projects. One such project currently underway is the construction of a major data centre facility at Eastern Creek.

Western Sydney is rapidly becoming Australia’s digital infrastructure hub, with several hyperscale data centres under development. The Eastern Creek precinct is home to some of the largest data centre projects ever proposed in Australia, including facilities planned to exceed 500MW of capacity and support the growing demand for cloud computing, artificial intelligence and critical digital services. Some proposed developments in the area are expected to be among the largest data centre campuses in the Southern Hemisphere.

Temporary Edge Protection for Data Centres – The Project

We were engaged to provide temporary edge protection and handrail systems around designated generator installation zones. These generators, some of which are enormous pieces of equipment, were required to be craned into position before being guided and installed by workers operating behind fully compliant temporary handrails.

The objective was simple: provide safe fall protection while maintaining sufficient access for workers to carry out the installation process efficiently and safely.

A Challenging Site Environment

This was no ordinary construction site. With more than 1,000 workers operating across multiple shifts and activities taking place 24 hours a day, the site was an incredibly busy environment. Every activity required careful planning and coordination. Crane lifts, forklift movements, inductions, material deliveries and access requirements all had to be booked well in advance. Missing a booking window could potentially delay works, so detailed planning was critical to keeping the project on schedule.

Adding to the challenge was the tight programme. We were required to complete our installations within strict timeframes, meaning resource planning was essential. Ensuring we had sufficient labour, equipment and transport available at the right times allowed us to meet the client’s expectations and maintain momentum on site.

Choosing the Right Edge Protection System

Over the years, we have developed and installed numerous temporary edge protection systems to suit different applications. For this project, after reviewing the requirements, we determined that our handrail post system was the most efficient and practical solution. The challenge, however, was how to securely fix the posts to the steel grating walkways. Access was only available from the top side of the platform, making traditional fixing methods impossible.

Working closely with our engineering consultant, Felix and the engineering team developed an innovative yet simple solution. A specially sized square washer was inserted through the grating at an angle, allowing it to rotate and sit flat beneath the walkway. Once the bolt was tightened from above, the washer locked into place, creating a secure fixing point without requiring access underneath. The solution proved highly effective and allowed the installation to proceed safely and efficiently while maintaining the integrity of the structure.

Working at Height

Before any handrail installation could commence, temporary static lines were required to be installed. Our team utilised Elevated Work Platforms (EWPs) to access the work areas and install the static line systems. Throughout the process, workers remained in fall restraint at all times, ensuring that no person was exposed to an uncontrolled fall risk.

This careful planning and adherence to safe work methods allowed the installation to proceed without incident despite the challenging working environment.

Overcoming Access and Parking Challenges

One challenge that is often overlooked on major projects is simply getting workers and materials onto site. The Eastern Creek location has limited public transport options, and with over a thousand workers arriving daily, parking availability was extremely limited. To overcome this issue, we adjusted our working hours and commenced shifts at 6:00am rather than the standard 7:00am start. This allowed our crews to avoid the busiest arrival period and significantly reduced delays entering the site. We also coordinated company vehicles and car-pooling arrangements, helping reduce the number of vehicles requiring parking while ensuring our teams arrived together and on time.

More Data Centre Works to Come

Since the initial installation, we have returned to site on several occasions to provide additional edge protection systems in other areas of the project. Various bracket configurations have been utilised to suit different structures and access requirements throughout the development.
As the project progresses, we look forward to showcasing some of these additional installations in future project updates.

Need Temporary Edge Protection or Scaffold Access?

Whether it’s a residential roof replacement, commercial construction project, industrial facility or major infrastructure development, Stronghold Hire can provide engineered scaffold, temporary edge protection, access solutions and fall protection systems tailored to your project requirements.
Our experienced team regularly works on complex sites where planning, compliance and safety are critical, delivering practical solutions that keep projects moving safely and efficiently. Contact Stronghold Hire today to discuss your next project.