Acmena's systems and safety assurance expertise plays a key role in the success of Yarra Trams' retraction program and helps extend the lifespan of its aging B2 fleet.

Challenge

To extend the lifespan and improve the reliability of its B2 trams, Yarra Trams commissioned TTM Rail and Kiepe Electric GmbH to refit the fleet with updated traction systems. To help navigate the complexities of Australian rollingstock regulations, Acmena was engaged to provide safety assurance support along with expertise in local processes and requirements. As a specialist consultant in Australian rail safety assurance, it was Acmena’s responsibility to ensure there were no gaps in safety assurance activities between all three stakeholders and to ensure the successful assurance of the project.

Approach

Acmena’s consultants took a collaborative approach to support effective alignment on safety engineering activities between all project stakeholders. Regular meetings were held between Acmena’s consultants, Kiepe and TTM Rail, in addition to workshops with Yarra Trams, to update teams and ensure confidence that safety assurance activities were being delivered to plan. Acmena also utilised its expertise in local safety processes and regulation to act as the key interface with the Independent Safety Assessor (ISA), managing communication and resolving comments.

Outcome

Acmena successfully refined the safety management plan and established assurance processes to align with Australian requirements. The team also reviewed key safety artifacts to ensure compliance with local standards, prepared the project safety case and successfully guided the project through ISA audits with all comments closed. Acmena’s consultants also up-skilled Kiepe engineers in SFAIRP compliance. The first tram has now successfully completed trials. Upgrades on the remaining trams are currently in progress with the first B2 set to resume service in 2026.

Profile

• Cost: Confidential
• Client: Kiepe Electric GmbH
• Objective: Extend the lifespan and improve the reliability of Yarra Tram’s aging B2 fleet with updated traction systems.
• Services provided: Systems and safety assurance

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