Spider Access was awarded the prestigious high-level cleaning facility management contract for the renowned Dubai Mall in 2017. Furthermore, the company was entrusted with the cleaning responsibilities for the mall’s expansion projects in 2018, 2019, and 2021. The comprehensive scope of the project entailed the cleaning of all areas above a height of 6 meters, employing a range of access methodologies such as Rope Access, MEWP access, and Scaffold.
SCOPE OF WORK
Despite the overall definition of the project scope, effectively addressing the immense scale of the mall and its expanding connections presented a significant challenge. However, Spider Access successfully tackled this obstacle by implementing thorough planning methodologies. This meticulous planning enabled the development of a comprehensive Preventive Planned Maintenance (PPM) plan, which was subsequently integrated into the MAXIMO portal. As a result, work orders were efficiently assigned and executed throughout the entire duration of the contract, ensuring seamless coverage of the mall’s cleaning requirement
CHALLENGES
Challenge 1: The Metro Link Bridge lacked the installation of anchor systems necessary for rope access operations.
Our Solution: Spider Access recommended the installation of HARKEN Access Rail systems to fulfil the client’s requirement for the duration of cleaning the bridge. In the interim, counterweight access systems were utilized as a prompt solution for cleaning the bridge.
Challenge 2: High-level cleaning conducted above roadways.
Our Solution: Spider Access conducted an extensive analysis to gain a comprehensive understanding of the specific safety regulations and guidelines for working above roadways. This involved consulting with the Road and Transport Authority (RTA) and procuring the necessary permits and No Objection Certificates (NOCs) on behalf of EMAAR to ensure the successful execution of the task in compliance with local requirements.
Challenge 3: FAE Promenade Canopies
Our Solution: Spider Access identified and recommended specialized counterweights specifically designed for glass parapets to be used in areas where traditional counterweights are typically used with concrete parapets. These specialized counterweights were sourced and supplied by Spider Access to facilitate the safe and effective cleaning of these specific areas.
THE TEAM
Access maintains a highly skilled and proficient on-site team trained in various disciplines. Our team consists of managers who possess certifications in Project Management, Lead Auditor, and NEBOSH, along with practical experience. These managers take charge of overseeing operational and safety aspects of the project.
We also have HSE Engineers and Officers who hold NEBOSH and IOSH certifications. Their primary responsibility is to ensure strict compliance with our established safety policies and procedures throughout the project duration.
A Project Coordinator/Admin, certified in IOSH, is responsible for managing documentation and online portals, streamlining processes, and facilitating effective communication. It is our practice that all management staff possess HSE certifications, reinforcing our team’s commitment to safety.
Our technicians undergo training at various levels. We deploy rope access teams that are IRATA certified, and we provide additional training for them to obtain IPAF and PASMA certifications. This approach has proven to be highly successful, enabling us to distribute manpower efficiently, cover all project scopes, and optimize costs for the client. The credentials of our rope access team include:
- IRATA Level 1 with IPAF and PASMA certifications
- IRATA Level 2 with IPAF and PASMA certifications
- IRATA Level 3 (Supervisors) with IPAF and PASMA certifications. Additionally, all our supervisors are trained in Basic First Aid, enhancing their emergency response capabilities.
By maintaining a team with diverse qualifications and certifications, Spider Access ensures efficient project execution, upholds safety standards, and delivers exceptional service to our clients. Our comprehensive skill set allows us to effectively handle various project requirements.
ACCESS METHODOLOGIES
- Rope Access (EN 795 Certified anchor points, HARKEN Access Rail, DW 200, DW 100)
- MEWP Access (Spider Lifts, Telescopic Lifts, Articulated lifts, Scissor lifts, Single Mast lifts)
- Scaffold Access (Aluminum Tower)
CONCLUSION
In conclusion, Spider Access has successfully undertaken the prestigious high-level cleaning facility management contract for the renowned Dubai Mall and its expansion projects. With a comprehensive scope of work that involved cleaning areas above 6 meters, the company employed various access methodologies such as Rope Access, MEWP access, and Scaffold. Despite the challenges posed by the vast scale of the mall, Spider Access overcame them through meticulous planning, resulting in a comprehensive Preventive Planned Maintenance (PPM) plan integrated into the MAXIMO portal. This facilitated the efficient assignment and execution of work orders throughout the entire contract duration. The team’s expertise and certifications in multiple disciplines, including project management and safety compliance, ensured smooth project operations. Spider Access also addressed specific challenges, such as the installation of anchor systems on the Metro Link Bridge, cleaning above roadways with the consultation and permit acquisition from the RTA, and utilizing specialized counterweights for glass parapets. The company’s highly skilled and certified team, trained in IRATA, IPAF, and PASMA, along with their commitment to safety, enabled efficient manpower distribution, comprehensive project coverage, and cost optimization. By leveraging access methodologies like Rope Access, MEWP Access, and Scaffold Access, Spider Access achieved exceptional results in maintaining the cleanliness and safety of the Dubai Mall and its facilities.
