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Case Study: Collaboration Between Balfour Beatty VINCI JV
and HERMEQ UK on HS2 Rail Project

 

INTRODUCTION 

Balfour Beatty VINCI (BBV) is HS2’s construction partner in the West Midlands, responsible for delivering 90 kilometres of HS2 between Long Itchington Wood in Warwickshire, to the centre of Birmingham and on to Staffordshire.  BBV’s stretch of the route involves a wide array of complex operations, including deep excavations and exposed edges. To address these, BBV turned to HERMEQ UK, a trusted supplier known for its innovative and reliable edge protection systems. 

This case study explores the successful partnership between BBV and HERMEQ UK, highlighting how HERMEQ’s edge protection systems contributed to maintaining safety standards on-site while ensuring operational efficiency. 

 

THE CHALLENGE

The HS2 development Bromford tunnel West Portal (Washwood Heath) site is characterised by large-scale, below-ground construction, requiring deep excavations for rail infrastructure.

  • Exposed Edges: Numerous open edges across the site, making robust edge protection a critical requirement. 
  • Complex Site Layout: The expansive and intricate site design demanded flexible and adaptable safety solutions.
  • Regulatory Compliance: Ensuring adherence to stringent safety regulations was essential, adding to the urgency of finding a reliable partner for edge protection. 

BBV sought an edge protection solution that would not only meet safety standards but also integrate seamlessly into the project’s dynamic workflow. Given the scale and complexity of HS2, it was imperative to partner with a supplier capable of delivering a high-quality solution within tight timelines. 

 

HERMEQ UK: A TRUSTED PARTNER

HERMEQ UK has a long-standing relationship with BBV, having previously supplied other essential items for the HS2 project. When faced with the challenge of securing exposed edges, BBV reached out to Matthew Perry, a key representative of HERMEQ UK. Known for his technical expertise and commitment to client success, Matthew recommended the HERMEQ Edge Protection System. 

HERMEQ’s edge protection system offered several advantages that aligned perfectly with BBV s needs: 

  • UK Manufacturing: The system is manufactured entirely in the UK, ensuring consistent quality and quick turnaround times. 
  • Customisable Solutions: HERMEQ provided flexible configurations to adapt to the varying edge protection requirements across the site. 
  • Local Availability: Being local to the Bromford tunnel West Portal (Washwood Heath) site allowed HERMEQ to deliver and install equipment promptly, minimising project delays. 
  • Certified Training: HERMEQ offered certified training to BBV personnel, ensuring safe and efficient use of the edge protection system. 
  • Technical Support: HERMEQ’s team remained available for ongoing technical support, addressing any issues or queries swiftly. 

 

IMPLEMENTATION

Once the partnership was established, HERMEQ worked closely with BBV to deploy the edge protection system across the Bromford tunnel West Portal (Washwood Heath) site. The implementation process involved the following steps: 

  1. Site Assessment: HERMEQ’s technical team conducted a thorough site assessment to identify areas requiring edge protection. This analysis included evaluating excavation depths, edge conditions, and anticipated site activities. 
  2. Custom Design: Based on the assessment, HERMEQ designed tailored edge protection solutions.  
  3. Installation: HERMEQ’s team collaborated with BBV s on-site personnel to install the edge protection system efficiently and securely. The modular design of the system facilitated quick assembly and disassembly, optimising workflow. 
  4. Training: HERMEQ provided comprehensive training to BBV staff, ensuring they were equipped to use and maintain the system safely. Training sessions were conducted on-site and included practical demonstrations. 
  5. Ongoing Support: HERMEQ’s commitment to client satisfaction was evident through continuous support, including regular site visits and immediate responses to any technical issues. 

 

RESULTS 

The collaboration between BBV and HERMEQ UK yielded impressive results, demonstrating the effectiveness of the edge protection system in enhancing site safety and operational efficiency: 

  • Regulatory Compliance: The system met all relevant safety standards and regulations, reinforcing BBV s commitment to maintaining the highest safety protocols. 
  • Operational Efficiency: The modular and flexible design of the edge protection system enabled seamless integration into the construction workflow, minimising disruptions. 
  • Cost-Effectiveness: By reducing the likelihood of accidents and associated downtime, the system contributed to overall cost savings for the project. 
  • Enhanced Collaboration: The partnership strengthened the relationship between BBV and HERMEQ, setting a precedent for future collaborations. 

 

A COLLABORATIVE SUCCESS   

The success of this initiative can be attributed to the strong collaboration between BBV and HERMEQ UK. HERMEQ’s proactive approach, combined with BBV s commitment to safety and quality, created a synergy that ensured the project’s objectives weremet effectively. 

Matthew Perry’s leadership and expertise played a pivotal role in the partnership. His dedication to understanding BBV s requirements and delivering tailored solutions exemplifies HERMEQ’s client-focused ethos. This collaborative approach laid the foundation for a long-term partnership. 

 

LOOKING AHEAD

As the HS2 project progresses, BBV and HERMEQ UK continue to work together to address evolving challenges. HERMEQ remains committed to providing innovative solutions and unwavering support, ensuring the highest safety standards are maintained throughout the project’s lifecycle. 

HERMEQ takes pride in contributing to a landmark project like HS2, with miles of their edge protection system visibly enhancing safety across the site. This collaboration underscores the importance of reliable partnerships in delivering complex infrastructure projects successfully. 

 

CONCLUSION 

The partnership between Balfour Beatty VINCI and HERMEQ UK highlights the critical role of innovative safety solutions in large-scale construction projects. By leveraging HERMEQ’s expertise and cutting-edge edge protection systems, BBV successfully addressed its safety requirements, ensuring the smooth progress of the HS2 development. 

This case study serves as a testament to the value of collaboration, adaptability, and a shared commitment to excellence. HERMEQ UK is proud to support BBV in shaping the future of UK transportation through the HS2 rail project. 

 

 

 

 

 

Last updated: October, 2025