Blast proof lift shafts

Normoyle Engineering was engaged to deliver a world-first blast-proof lift shaft installation at Sydney’s iconic Central Station—an engineering challenge that required us to rethink conventional methodology from the ground up. Working under a heritage-listed awning and within a live rail environment, we re-designed the entire project concept to safely deliver structurally rated, blast-resistant lift shafts without disturbing protected elements above.

Our team developed and fabricated a custom jacking structure to precisely lift the assembled shafts through an existing platform opening—with just 2mm of clearance on either side. Every element was meticulously engineered, modelled, and trial-assembled to prove functionality before arriving on-site.

The result was a flawless, first-of-its-kind installation that met strict blast resistance criteria while overcoming severe space and access constraints. All works were completed safely alongside live train operations—demonstrating Normoyle’s ability to innovate, adapt, and deliver in the most demanding conditions.