Overview

Huge Shiplift building in danger of closure due to storm damage. Requirement to be safe and fully operational at the earliest opportunity.

Background

The Naval base at Faslane has a shiplift capability among the largest in the world. This is contained within the huge Shiplift Building designed for the purpose. The building recently sufferered storm damage during winter months leaving some areas exposed to the elements. TRAC were engaged to work alongside structural engineers to survey the extent of the damage while simultaneously recording condition of all elements of the building. The initial instruction to compile a report on the overall condition with a view to uncovering any weakness that may have allowed the damage to occur.

The Works

TRAC deployed an IRATA Qualified Rope Access team to complete works including:

• Assisting engineer with full building survey
• Installation of fall arrest nets directly below roof damage
• Install temporary fall arrest on roof
• Roof repairs
• Cladding sheet replacement
• Repairs to movement joints
• Application of protective and waterproof coatings

Outcome

Works completed as programmed to the complete satisfaction of the client.

Overview

TRAC engaged to replace 5 storm damaged radomes for the MOD at its site on the island of St Kilda.

Background

TRAC were engaged by QinetiQ to install 5 new GRP radomes at the MOD site on St Kilda. The existing radomes were destroyed in gale force winds recorded in excess of 180mph. The radomes rest on top of buildings and towers at the top of a hill open to the Atlantic Ocean on all sides. The radomes are designed to protect modern, valuable radar equipment while allowing them to function as they should. It was vital that they were replaced as soon as possible.

The Works

The works required IRATA rope access technicians to:

• Remove what remained of the existing radomes without damaging equipment
• Survey and prepare the sites to accept new domes
• Construct the new domes from flatpack at ground level
• Lift domes by crane and lower position
• Securely fix down the domes without any damage to the GRP fabric
• Install new lighting

Outcome

Works complete on time for MOD trials to start during the summer months and before any damage to exposed radar equipment.

Overview

TRAC were engaged for essential annual repairs to masts and towers at St Kilda and Benbecula.

Background

The MOD has several sites throughout the west coast and western isles of Scotland. These sites are extremely exposed to the elements and in need of regular care and attention to ensure they continue to function and are fit for purpose. Many sites have high value modern equipment fixed at high level on masts and towers. These structures are exposed to continuous high winds and subsequently need regular inspection and maintenance. Our Clients task is to ensure the MOD is subject to no disruption to its vital operations. To assist with this they employ TRAC HLM.

The Works

An IRATA qualified team of rope access technicians were deployed to St Kilda to carry out repairs and maintenance including:

• Strengthening works to lattice tower to increase capacity
• Installation of new mast rest platforms and hatches
• Replacing and re-tensioning of structural bolts
• Removal of redundant cable try and feeder cables
• Installation of ladder access fall arrest system
• Application of protective coatings

Outcome

Progress can be severely limited by weather conditions and lightning risk. TRAC’s flexibility ensured works were completed during the shut down period allowing MOD trials to commence as planned.

Overview

TRAC carry out urgent repairs and annual maintenance on Corrieshalloch Bridge near Ullapool. The Victorian bridge crosses Corrieshalloch gorge a spectacular deep gorge popular with tourists.

Background

A recent Engineers survey had uncovered degradation in bridge deck connections that required urgent remedial action to ensure the bridge could remain open over the busy summer months.
TRAC were engaged at an early stage to assist with the design of temporary works that would ensure the integrity of the bridge until a more permanent solution could be developed.

The Works

The work involved:

• Immediate closure of bridge to exclude the public
• A survey to confirm all measurements
• Procure all metalwork items from design drawings
• Rope access installation of new steel supports to the underdesk
• General maintenance items to bridge abutments, cable stays, suspension towers and rock stabilisation
• Touch up of protective coatings

Outcome

Works completed on time within budget and accident free. The bridge was re- opened to the public for the start of the tourist season.

Overview

TRAC were engaged to install two new beacons on isolated rocks in the Sound of Harris to ensure the continued safe passage of shipping through the Strait.

Background

The Sound of Harris provides the main sea passage through the Outer Hebrides from the Atlantic Ocean to the Minch. There are many islands and numerous rocks and skerries in this stretch of water making it potentially treacherous to shipping. As well as merchant and recreational shipping passing through there is a regular daily ferry from Harris to Berneray. The Northern Lighthouse Board must ensure its Aids to Navigation; beacons, lights etc. are suitably positioned and functioning to allow safe passage for all mariners. Recent surveys had highlighted two such waymark beacons were in need of renewal.

The Project

TRAC engaged the assistance of a work-boat operator to provide the transport for materials and personnel to the marine sites.
TRAC’s team were deployed to carry out the following work items to suit tides, sea state and weather conditions:

• Clear rocks of seaweed, break out and level areas to receive new beacons
• Drill 60mm holes to a depth of 1.5 metres
• Grout in holding down bolts
• Position new 5 metre stainless steel beacons in situ
• Post tension all bolts
• Install GRP day-mark sleeves and top marks
• Remove and dispose of existing beacons

Outcome

Works completed in a realistic timeframe, within budget. No accidents on site, no disruption to shipping and no damage to sites that are within a National Scenic Area and Marine Special Protection Area.