Plumb Guard™ - The Lifesaver on Waverley Crescent

Plumb Guard™ – The Lifesaver on Waverley Crescent

Plumb Guard™ - The Lifesaver on Waverley Crescent

In the realm of water main construction & maintenance, the margin between safety and disaster can be hair-thin. A recent incident in Bondi, NSW, underscores the critical importance of electrical safety processes and the indispensable role of Plumb Guard™ in averting potential disasters. This case study examines the sequence of events, the implementation of safety measures, and the successful outcome due to the diligence of all parties involved.

case study roadmap

01

On the 8th of May, 2012, a routine water main connection was scheduled at 5 Waverley Crescent, Bondi Junction. The task entailed integrating a 100mm tee into an existing main. MGP Building and Infrastructure Services Pty Ltd oversaw the operation, with MGP Civil Contractors as the constructor and Sydney Water’s inspector, Michael Price, monitoring the process.

02

The day unfolded with standard procedure—excavation, exposure of the connection point, and setup of electrical safety equipment by the constructor for cutting the cast iron main. However, upon attaching the Plumb Guard™ device, a critical alert was triggered, signalling the presence of an electrical current.

03

Adhering to protocol, the job was halted and Ausgrid, the power utility, was contacted. A joint investigation by contractors and Sydney Water personnel traced the current to a water service in a nearby residence, which had a compromised electrical setup lacking a proper neutral connection. With the power isolated, Plumb Guard™ was reactivated, confirming the absence of current and allowing the work to proceed safely.

04

After the successful water main connection, Ausgrid addressed the residential electrical issue, restoring normalcy and safety to the area.

The Role of Plumb Guard™

This incident not only highlights the effectiveness of provider electrical safety training but also the critical role of Plumb Guard™ in the field. With its precise monitoring capabilities, Plumb Guard™, a creation by HLP Controls, serves as an early warning system against electrical hazards. The device’s prompt alert enabled the team to immediately cease operations and resolve the electrical danger, ultimately saving lives.

The Plumb Guard™ proved to be an essential asset in this scenario, reflecting the innovative work of Len Wallace, director and owner of HLP Controls. This case is a testament to Plumb Guard’s™ capacity to safeguard workers against the invisible threats that lurk within construction sites, under streets and watermeters. It reinforces the message that with the right tools and processes, such as those provided by HLP Controls and Plumb Guard™, we can ensure the safety of our workers and the community at large.