Waterproofing Inspection Pits at Leyland Trucks

In 2022, a complex waterproofing project was successfully delivered by RTC at Leyland Trucks in, one of the UK’s most prominent truck manufacturing facilities and a key site for the global PACCAR Group. The site, renowned for its efficiency and high standards, required robust waterproofing solutions for newly constructed inspection and brake testing pits, critical infrastructure to support ongoing operational improvements at the live manufacturing facility.

The project presented several technical and logistical challenges:

• Live Environment: All work had to be completed without disrupting the factory’s ongoing operations.
• Technical Complexity: The pits had to be constructed within strict dimensional tolerances and required careful planning to integrate into an existing live site.
• Ground Conditions: Challenging sub-ground conditions required precise engineering to ensure the long-term performance of the waterproofing system.
• Varied Pit Design: The project included three large pits to accommodate hidden truck brake testing equipment and two smaller inspection pits, each requiring tailored waterproofing treatments.

Construction was handled by ND Civils & Groundworks Limited, who coordinated closely with other trades to manage the technical demands of the structural concrete and surrounding work environment.

A multi-layered waterproofing strategy was designed, specified, and warranted by RTC, incorporating high-performance products from Safeguard Europe and Delta Membranes. The waterproofing system included:

• Pre-applied membrane systems for foundational waterproofing
• Waterbars for joint protection
• Crystalline active slurry to penetrate and seal the concrete
• Waterproof mortar fillets at critical wall/floor junctions
• Bonded sheet membranes for long-term integrity
• Drainage/protection layers to manage water ingress and protect membranes from damage

The works were phased over four stages throughout 2022 to maintain uninterrupted factory operations.

The project was completed successfully, meeting all quality and performance standards. The waterproofed pits now form a key part of Leyland Trucks’ upgraded infrastructure, supporting vehicle inspection and advanced brake testing under optimal conditions. The application of a comprehensive waterproofing system ensures longevity, minimal maintenance, and a safe working environment for operational staff.