Handrail Installation

The steel access handrails at one of Pacific Gas & Electric’s (PG&E) remote substations in the San Joaquin Valley were outdated, corroded, and ungrounded, making them hazardous for workers, not to mention a maintenance nightmare. To help PG&E upgrade their Kerckhoff Substation 1, TTR partnered with Strongwell Corporation and San Diego Plastics to undertake the challenging project of installing more than 1,500 feet of bright yellow SAFRAIL™ fiberglass handrails on five levels of steep and uneven terrain, some areas sloping as much as a 45%.

For the stairs and walkways, TTR crews fitted adjustable connectors with 2-3/8” handrail pre-routed posts, and 2” x 2” top and mid-rails. In the areas where the transformers needed to be separated, STRONGRAIL® barrier fences and DURADEK® panels were installed.

The newly installed handrails are an aesthetically pleasing bright yellow color with a smooth polyurethane coating, and are much safer for workers due to the fiberglass being non-conductive.
These durable materials also have a greater life expectancy as compared to metal or steel, and virtually eliminate the need for any maintenance or repairs.

This TTR key project was a perfect opportunity to showcase the company’s expertise working on a steep slope in a remote location.