Though it's easy to take our continuous supply of fresh water for granted, the fact is that there are countless complex logistics involved in the process. The water we use every day is made safe in purpose-designed treatment plants: when one of these plants, located in Slaidburn, required urgent repairs, Mitchell's Scaffolding were on hand to provide the scaffolding needed to give contractors safe, clear access.
The water that flows in and out of the treatment plant at Slaidburn is regulated by a valve. After providing many years of hassle-free service, the valve had become dysfunctional and replacement was the only option. To facilitate this replacement, our team had to design a bespoke load-bearing scaffolding structure, as well as installing a sturdy, reliable hoist that would lift out the damaged valve before being used to lower in the replacement.
Many different factors had to be taken into account when designing the bespoke scaffolding, such as the valve's position and the location of steel supporting plates in the floor. As the scaffold would be located in an area of high-frequency usage by staff at the plant, we included barrier, nipple caps and end caps in our design to enhance safety levels.
Upon completion of the scaffolding, the hoist was tested to ensure it was fit for purpose. The water supply was temporarily frozen and the old valve safely removed. Next, the new valve was lowered into place and connected before defrosting of the mains feed. As soon as the efficacy of the new valve was confirmed, our team quickly and efficiently dismantled the scaffolding structure we had built.
As disruption to water supply had to be kept to an absolute minimum, our team had to work to strict deadlines. To help us do this, we arranged pre-set installation and removal dates, as well as allowing for emergency cover if that had become necessary. From initial contact to completion of the project, just seven days were required thanks to our careful planning.
Find out more about our work in the 'Portfolio' section of our website.
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