The “wheelstop rammer” mechanically drives pins into place, rather than requiring the manual force of a sledgehammer.
The airport-based Park and Ride South team from Fulton Hogan developed this innovation during the hot 2023-24 summer. They were suffering from fatigue as a result of the heat and physical exertion needed. Using the sledgehammer also meant increased risk of injury - whether pains and strains or glancing blows.
Each Park and Ride South wheelstop needed to be secured with three pins, using the sledgehammer. Josh and his team knew that there must be a safer and more effective way. With Josh’s leadership and support, the team worked together - and with other precinct contractors - until they found it.
The wheelstop rammer means crews can work faster, and more safely. It reduces the fatigue and risk of injury that comes with using a sledgehammer. The entire placement process is faster, and damage to the wheelstop pins is also less likely.
Pictured here is Debbie Colquhoun (from the Health & Safety Wellbeing Subcommittee) presenting the award to Fulton Hogan at the CCNZ Auckland Branch Meeting on 17 June.
Thank you to the other entries for the Quarter 2 Good Stuff Award:
BeSafe Training have developed a 2-week course designed to provide them with the skills to operate an excavator and ultimately to find employment. Students leave with experience driving machinery, a Constructsafe passport, first aid, and WRT endorsement.
CDS New Zealand have developed and implemented a range of thoughtful initiatives, we prioritize creating a positive atmosphere where every team member feels valued and supported. Their Health & Safety/Reset Days stand as a testament to this commitment, combining essential safety education with fun team-building activities like Minute to Win It challenges and collaborative Lego creations. These events not only strengthen safety practices but also foster unity and communication skills vital for day-to-day operations.
Fulton Hogan Precast have developed a fall prevention system. While setting up the 1825 Super Tee Mould for Eastern Busway, the team realised that there would be a constant fall risk for people walking on top of the mould. This risk would be present until the void fillers (boats) have been put in place. A system was designed and manufactured by FH Precast to eliminate this risk completely, as opposed to putting measures in place which would mitigate the risk (handrails, fall restraint etc.). The fall prevention system (comprised of multiple sections) sits on top of rails which are mounted on either side of the mould. These sections can then be moved along the mould as required to prevent any person from accidentally falling into the mould while working beside the void. The system can also be secured once its in its intended position.
We want to share the good! Let us know what innovations you or your team have developed to improve health, safety or wellbeing, sustainability initiatives, or just general good ideas that we can share. If you've got Good Stuff to share let us know about it here and be in to win!
Thank you to CablePrice for supporting this initiative and donating the winners trophy!