HDPE Public Safety Barrier
Ontario Power Group (OPG) is the largest low-carbon electricity generator in Ontario, Canada. OPG contacted PNP Containment Solutions to protect one of their key hydroelectric assets, Ear Falls Generating Station.
The goal of this project was to set a public safety barrier within the fast-flowing tailrace of the generating station. This warns and prevents boats from entering, while allowing water and any debris flow through easily.
About the Design
The three span barrier consisted of Fast Water Series co-extruded HDPE barriers with black end caps. The public safety barriers were designed to roll freely on the anchor chain and are locked into position by steel/HDPE chain stops. The chain through barrier was positioned within the tailrace using 19 mm chain, two in-line shore anchors, two upstream shore anchors and two downstream shore anchors. In-line break links were installed at each shore anchor point as an additional safety measure.
PNP designed and manufactured Two co-extruded HDPE hazard buoys for the upstream side of the barrier to offset downward and tension forces, while two downstream hazard buoys were also placed to inform the public of the immediate hazard.
Pacific Netting Products’ Fast Water Series public safety barriers are low-maintenance, all-season barriers that are suitable for both high- and low-flow conditions. They are designed to deliver up to a 50-year service life, with few moving parts or points of failure. PNP Fast Water Series barriers can restrict boat access and serve as a public safety barrier while allowing debris to pass downstream.
Installation Features
- 101 Fast Water Series co-extruded HDPE barriers
- Steel/HDPE chain stops
- In-line break links
- Four co-extruded HDPE hazard buoys
Result
PNP established a durable and effective public safety barrier that could protect the Ear Falls Generating Station and boat drivers for 50+ years. Learn more about the history of the Ear Falls Generating Station here.
