The challenge
The 50 m external staircase of a cement silo is the operators' main route to the top. Corrosion had attacked the stringers and landings, fasteners had loosened and the enclosure cladding was damaged.
The staircase had to stay usable for most of the job, so the work was carried out in stages from rope access and working platforms.
Scope of works
- Rope access teams and working platforms along the 50 m staircase
- Removal of damaged cladding, abrasive blasting and rust removal on the steelwork
- Welding repairs to handrails and steps, epoxy primer and polyurethane topcoat
- New weather-resistant cladding and a full fastener audit
Outcome
The staircase and enclosure were fully restored, giving operators safe access and long-term protection against corrosion. See also the new silo access staircase we built at another plant.