Biffa Waste & Dofygate - Enhancing Yard Safety and Efficiency
Biffa Waste partnered with Dofygate to improve vehicle and pedestrian management within their waste yard. The implementation of Dofygate’s flexible, solar-powered barriers provided a solution to control access, enhance safety, and maintain operational efficiency without the need for extensive infrastructure changes. This case study explores the challenges faced by Biffa Waste, the solutions provided by Dofygate, and the subsequent benefits and achievements.
Challenges and Solutions
Challenges:
Biffa Waste’s yard layout did not allow for permanent powered lights or barriers due to the distance from power sources. The need to manage the flow of Biffa’s own vehicles and prevent unauthorized contractor access was crucial, particularly during incidents like spills. Traditional barriers posed risks of injury to personnel and damage to vehicles, necessitating a safer alternative. Permanent infrastructure was impractical due to potential future changes in yard layout and operations. Efficiently managing access and movement during emergencies such as fire drills was essential.
Solutions:
Dofygate provided barriers that are easily movable and solar-powered, eliminating the need for proximity to power sources. Barriers are controlled by the weighbridge operator, reducing the need for personnel to be near moving traffic and allowing quick area isolation when necessary. The barriers are designed with flexible components that minimize injury risks and vehicle damage upon impact. The mobile nature of the barriers allows them to be relocated as operational needs change, providing long-term cost savings and flexibility. Barriers are incorporated into the fire plan, allowing for quick yard lockdown and controlled access for emergency services.
Benefits and Achievements
Enhanced Safety
The implementation of flexible barriers has significantly reduced the risk of injury and vehicle damage in the yard. With the ability to control 80-90 vehicle movements per day seamlessly, Biffa Waste has seen improvements in traffic management.
Cost Savings & Long-Term Flexibility
Avoiding the need for extensive permanent infrastructure has saved costs related to installation, maintenance, and future modifications. The mobile barriers provide a reusable solution that can be adapted to different areas or redeployed to other depots as needed.
Emergency Preparedness
The ability to quickly lock down the yard and manage access during emergencies has improved overall safety and response times.
Recommendations and Conclusions
Recommendations:
Biffa Waste should consider extending the use of mobile barriers to other areas of their operations, especially those with similar power supply and safety concerns. Ensuring the barriers and their solar power systems are regularly maintained will maximise their lifespan and efficiency. Continuous training for staff on the operation and benefits of the barriers will enhance their effectiveness and integration into safety protocols.
Conclusions:
The collaboration between Biffa Waste and Dofygate has resulted in a safer, more efficient yard operation. The innovative use of solar-powered, mobile barriers has addressed critical challenges related to power supply, safety, and operational flexibility. This case study highlights the importance of adaptable and safe solutions in industrial environments, setting a benchmark for future improvements in waste management and other sectors.
