Acmena’s systems engineering and assurance expertise plays a critical role in delivering Melbourne’s benchmark level crossing removal project.

Challenge

One of the most significant challenges was obtaining ONRSR approval for the use of a straddle carrier. Not only had the technology never been used before in Australia, gaining approval for its use in daytime over a live railway was vital to constructing elevated sections of rail in a narrow residential corridor, and ensuring the project was completed on time with minimal disruptions to the network.

Approach

Acmena used Goal Structuring Notation (GSN) to develop and demonstrate safety cases. This enabled our team to simplify complexity and engage more effectively with stakeholders, including ONRSR. The use of IBM DOORS Next fostered greater visibility and collaboration across the project while allowing Acmena to provide evidence-based reports to demonstrate compliance with safety and regulatory requirements.

Outcome

Acmena’s approach was critical to obtaining approval for the use of the straddle carrier and ensuring the project was completed on time, on budget and with minimal disruptions. Our pragmatic approach was adopted by LXRA and subsequently employed to create efficiencies on other level crossing removal projects, with LXRA staff being up-skilled in the process.

Profile

• Cost: $1.6b
• Start: 2016
• Finish: 2019
• Client: CTD Alliance
• Objective: Remove nine dangerous level crossings from Melbourne’s busiest line, improving safety and reducing congestion. Install three sections of elevated railway and five new stations with additional cycle lanes, parks and recreation facilities under the elevated sections.
• Services provided: Systems and safety assurance, systems engineering.

Related Content: Case Study – Caulfield to Dandenong Level Crossing Removal Project