Spider Access was granted the contract for the challenging high-level technical façade works from 2019 to 2022. Throughout this period, we successfully completed a wide range of tasks, including the installation of 18,000 linear meters of silicone, over 300 tons of façade paneling, more than 250 individually designed glass panels, and over 6,000 linear meters of LED and electrical cabling. These complex operations were accomplished using rope access techniques, despite the demanding conditions involved.
SCOPE OF WORK
Spider Access maintained a consistently large team of over 50 skilled rope access operatives on-site, proficient in various disciplines, to handle the extensive and demanding scopes of work across the entire façade. These scopes included the initial façade installation, electrical fit-out, glazing, and the final stages of testing and commissioning.
CHALLENGES
- Installation of 4 Ton Façade Panels: One of the major challenges faced by Spider Access was the installation of heavy 4-ton façade panels located on the underbelly of the building. The requirement was to install these panels without the use of a crane, posing logistical difficulties. However, the project team devised a successful hang and haul lifting methodology, eliminating the need for costly and time-consuming load-bearing scaffolds.
- Alignment of Façade Paneling: The architectural design of the building, including the Arabic calligraphy, made the precise alignment of the façade paneling crucial. Working to tolerances of +/- 3mm, it was vital to ensure the wording matched precisely. Spider Access deployed its senior rope access QA/QC team to meticulously check each panel, providing vital data to the client and consultant, who were unable to access the façade themselves.
- Testing and Commissioning: The testing and commissioning phase presented another challenge for Spider Access. It was crucial to methodically test every square inch of the façade due to its design, which made the structure more susceptible to adverse weather. Contacting all areas of the façade required careful planning and execution.
SOLUTION
- Hang and Haul Lifting Methodology: To overcome the challenge of installing the 4-ton façade panels without a crane, Spider Access developed a successful hang and haul lifting methodology. This innovative approach allowed for efficient installation while eliminating the need for expensive and time-consumingload-bearing scaffolds.
- Meticulous QA/QC Inspection: Spider Access deployed a senior rope access QA/QC team to meticulously check each façade panel for precise alignment, especially concerning the Arabic calligraphy. This rigorous inspection process provided essential data to the client and consultant, ensuring the quality and accuracy of the façade despite their inability to access it directly.
- State-of-the-Art Testing Equipment: To ensure thorough testing and commissioning, Spider Access procured state-of-the-art testing equipment capable of measuring water volume and pressure. This equipment simulated various weather conditions that the façade may encounter, providing the necessary quality assurance required by the Future foundation.
THE TEAM
To meet the diverse requirements of the contract and uphold safety standards, Spider Access maintains a highly skilled and professional on-site team with expertise in multiple disciplines. Our team members possess various certifications and credentials, including Project Management, Lead Auditor, and NEBOSH certification, along with extensive experience in managing large-scale rope access projects. They take charge of overseeing operational and safety aspects, ensuring the smooth execution of the project. We also have HSE Engineers and Officers who hold NEBOSH and IOSH certifications. Their role is to ensure strict adherence to our established safety policies and procedures at all times, creating a safe working environment. For quality assurance and rope access inspection, we have a dedicated QA/QC team consisting of senior IRATA Level 3 professionals who are NEBOSH certified and possess a decade of experience in the industrial rope access sector. Their expertise ensures meticulous inspection and adherence to safety standards. To handle documentation and streamline communication, we have a Project Coordinator who holds IOSH certification. Their responsibilities include controlling documentation and managing online portals, facilitating efficient processes and effective communication within the team. Supervisors and 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 help the client optimize costs. Our rope access team credentials include:
- Multi-skilled IRATA Level 1 professionals
- Multi-skilled IRATA Level 2 professionals with IPAF and PASMA certifications
- IRATA Level 3 supervisors with IPAF and PASMA certifications. Additionally, all our supervisors are trained in First Aid, enhancing their emergency response capabilities.
By maintaining a highly qualified and certified team, Spider Access ensures efficient project execution, prioritizes safety, and delivers exceptional service to our clients. Our comprehensive skill set enables us to handle diverse project requirements effectively.
ACCESS METHODOLOGIES
- Rope Access (EN 795 Certified anchor points, HARKEN Access Rail,)
- MEWP Access (Spider Lifts, Telescopic Lifts, Articulated lifts, Scissor lifts, Single Mast lifts)
- Project Duration: [2019 – 2022]
CONCLUSION
In conclusion, Spider Access successfully completed the challenging high-level technical façade works from 2019 to 2022, overcoming various obstacles and delivering outstanding results. The project involved the installation of 18,000 linear meters of silicone, over 300 tons of façade paneling, more than 250 individually designed glass panels, and over 6,000 linear meters of LED and electrical cabling, all accomplished using rope access techniques. The project presented several challenges, including the installation of heavy 4-ton façade panels without a crane. However, Spider Access devised a successful hang and haul lifting methodology, eliminating the need for expensive scaffolds. Another challenge was ensuring precise alignment of the façade paneling, including the Arabic calligraphy. The company deployed a senior rope access QA/QC team to meticulously inspect each panel, providing essential data to the client and consultant. Additionally, thorough testing and commissioning were carried out using state-of-the-art equipment to simulate various weather conditions. Spider Access maintained a highly skilled and professional on-site team, including certified Project Managers, HSE Engineers and Officers, and QA/QC inspectors. Rope access teams with various certifications were deployed, allowing for efficient distribution of manpower and coverage of project scopes. The team’s commitment to safety and expertise in multiple disciplines ensured the project’s successful execution. By implementing innovative solutions and leveraging the capabilities of the team, Spider Access overcame challenges, delivered high-quality results, and met the project’s requirements. The company’s dedication to professionalism, safety, and exceptional service has solidified its reputation as a trusted provider in the industry.
