Bulk Grain Handling Facility, London
Confined Space Cleaning & Maintenance
Bulk Grain Handling Facility, London
Evolve Rope Access Ltd was engaged by a major bulk grain handling company in London to carry out complex confined space cleaning and maintenance operations within a key facility.
Services required:
Overview:
The work involved the safe removal of potentially explosive dust buildup, essential maintenance to internal plant structures, and the creation of a detailed condition report — critical for maintaining safety, compliance, and operational reliability. Previous contractors had failed to present a suitably robust plan for this hazardous work-scope.
Challenges:
Confined Space Entry: Limited access points and the hazardous nature of the location and task required careful planning, specialist equipment and knowledge, and in-built rescue capability.
Potentially Explosive Atmosphere: The presence of combustible dust required strict compliance with the Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmosphere Regulations (DSEAR 2002). This included the use of ATEX Zone rated equipment, static-dissipative PPE, and respiratory protection.
Operational Sensitivity: Work had to be conducted safely, efficiently, and without disrupting wider site operations.
Our Approach:
Following an in-depth site visit and collaborative planning session with the client, Evolve developed a comprehensive strategy tailored to the specific hazards and operational constraints of the environment.
This included a focus on safe systems of work, detailed risk control measures, and contingency planning.
We deployed a highly competent confined space rope access team, trained to operate in hazardous and regulated environments. The team was supported by a dedicated rescue plan, overseen by an experienced on-site supervisor, and backed by our off-site management team.
A robust Method Statement and Risk Assessment (RAMS) pack addressing confined space hazards, explosive atmospheres, and emergency scenarios.
Use of ATEX-rated lighting, tools, and communications equipment—all certified for use in potentially explosive atmospheres.
Specialist PPE, including anti-static, flame-resistant clothing, full respiratory protection, and confined space harness systems.
Deployment of a portable EN795 A-frame anchor system to ensure compliant access and egress, and facilitate rescue if required.Strict adherence to confined space entry procedures, including continuous gas monitoring, communications protocols, and permit-to-work systems.
The cleaning, inspection, and reporting were delivered using advanced rope access techniques, allowing safe, efficient navigation of the internal plant structure with minimal disruption to site operations.
Outcome:
Evolve successfully delivered the full scope of work safely, on schedule, and without disruption to wider site operations. Our planning, specialist team, and methodical execution ensured zero incidents, no delays, and full compliance with all regulatory requirements.
A comprehensive post-project report was provided, including photographic evidence, detailed findings, and recommendations for further action — giving the client assurance, clear documentation, and confidence in the safety and integrity of the plant moving forward.
Benefits and Savings:
Enhanced Safety
Evolve maintained strict compliance with the Work at Height Regulations 2005, the Confined Spaces Regulations 1997, and the Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres Regulations 2002 (DSEAR). Continuous atmospheric monitoring and robust safety controls were in place throughout the operation.
Proven Expertise
Evolve successfully delivered the project where previous attempts had been unsuccessful, demonstrating the effectiveness of rope access techniques in complex, confined environments.
Cost Efficiency
Rope access eliminated the need for costly scaffolding and plant, reducing project costs and providing the client with a faster, more agile solution.
Reduced Downtime
Accurate high-level inspections, safety checks, and condition assessments of difficult-to-access structures.
Book your free site visit
Efficiency and safety are paramount. Our pre-start site visits verify rope access suitability, assess risks and ensure safety before work begins.
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Site-specific hazard identification: We assess and address any hazards unique to your site.
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Anchor point assessment: We check anchor availability and provide temporary anchors where needed.
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Debris risk management: We identify and effectively mitigate risks of falling debris.
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Environmental factor assessment: We evaluate environmental conditions to ensure safe operations.
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Rescue procedure verification: We ensure rescue plans are in place and can be quickly executed.
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Third-party protection: We prioritise the safety of others by securing the work area from potential risks.
