The significant task of high-level cleaning for The Burj Khalifa was entrusted to Spider Access in October 2022, marking the initiation of a pivotal project. In the backdrop of this assignment were both the challenges and opportunities that lay ahead. With limited to zero support from previous service provider, Spider Access assumed the mantle of responsibility, aiming to redefine standards.
The project’s commencement was further underscored by the stringent mobilization schedule set by EMAAR, the driving force behind the building’s upkeep and aesthetic brilliance. Despite these constraints, Spider Access embarked on this iconic mission with determination and diligence. The task at hand went beyond mere physical cleaning; It encompassed a desire to enhance the building’s appearance to its peak potential.
As the project progressed, Spider Access’s strategy demonstrated resilience, innovation, and cooperation. Our commitment to excellence and overcoming obstacles seamlessly harmonized with the very essence of the building, aligning with its architectural magnificence. The partnership between Spider Access, EMAAR, and the iconic structure is a testament to shared vision for excellence.
SCOPE OF WORK
External and Internal High-level Cleaning
ACCESS METHODOLOGIES
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- Rope Access
- MEWP Access
- Scaffold Access
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CHALLENGES
Wind: Wind speeds can reach up to 60 km/hr. on the Burj Khalifa. While high wind speeds pose a challenge during cleaning, another significant hurdle is the building’s architecture, designed to counter the wind. This architecture causes the wind hitting the building to shatter in different directions, simultaneously leading to water droplets being dispersed all over the clean façade.
SOLUTION
A carefully crafted cleaning schedule was devised, taking into account wind forecasts to address potential wind-related problems. Additionally, a unique cleaning strategy was implemented to tackle the issue of water dispersal.
CHALLENGES
Stakeholders: As the contract unfolded, the level of stakeholder involvement in the projectgrew. This included a diverse group including the client EMAAR, residents, ARMANI hotel management team, hotel guests, entertainment team, and other contractors. This created challenges with communication complexity and managing expectations.
SOLUTION
A thorough stakeholder analysis was conducted to understand their needs and expectations from the project and a resource management system to efficiently allocate resource across different stakeholder requirements.
CHALLENGES
Heat: The structural elements of Burj Khalifa predominantly consist of glass and steel, both of which have the tendency to radiate and reflect significant amounts of heat. This impacts the rope access technicians who are engaged in work on the building’s façade, causing exhaustion and heat stress during summer.
SOLUTION
Therefore, meticulous planning, adequate equipment, and measures to mitigate heat-related risks are vital to ensure their effective and secure operations on the façade.
CHALLENGES
Safety: Performing rope access activities on the Burj Khalifa proves to be a complex task due to the building’s initial design that relied on Building Maintenance Units (BMUs) for cleaning. Using rope access to cover the entire façade involves a lot of effort in terms of aid climbing, ascending, descending, and managing ropes on a daily basis. This process involves complex maneuvers and a high degree of skill as technicians clean the facade to execute their tasks effectively and safely.
SOLUTION
A comprehensive risk assessment, continuously updated to account for site-specific hazards and changing weather conditions, serves as an ongoing process. Equipment selection, inspection, and maintenance adhere to both local regulations and IRATA standards, exceeding requirements. A detailed rigging plan has been meticulously crafted, specifying anchor points, rope lengths, and securing methods for all consumables and supplies.
CHALLENGES
Quality: Quality is integral, extending from basic consumables to equipment, staff proficiency, and exceeding standards. The cornerstone of succeeding on this iconic building lies in investing in quality. When working on an iconic building, the task surpasses mere rope-suspended cleaning; it becomes about delivering unparalleled quality driven by the significance of the internal view and the aesthetics presented to guests. Each façade element is expected to uphold a consistently flawless condition.
SOLUTION
Achieving this requires intensive training, continuous monitoring, and the application of specialized cleaning agents.
CONCLUSION
In conclusion, Spider Access embarked on the monumental task of high-level cleaning for The Burj Khalifa with determination and diligence. Despite facing challenges such as wind, heat, complex stakeholder involvement, and safety concerns, Spider Access devised innovative solutions to overcome these obstacles. Their commitment to excellence and quality aligned seamlessly with the iconic building’s architectural magnificence. This partnership between Spider Access, EMAAR, and The Burj Khalifa exemplifies a shared vision for excellence, making this project a testament to their dedication and success in redefining high-level cleaning standards.
