Project Description:
We deconstructed a former precious metals refinery in Acton, West London involving the partial de-commissioning of the administration building, extraction of stone features and removal of underground structures for VALE Europe.
This extensive project was completed during the Covid-19 pandemic and therefore a satellite compound with living facilities was created for the workforce who could safely isolate in the facilities during the week. We are committed to safety and therefore we extended our Covid safe site by installing automatic gates, hands-free temperature scanners and the latest faeces Covid scanning system. This resulted in a Covid transmission rate of zero.
The site remained live throughout the project so we ensured live services were protected throughout the enabling works.
The initial phase of the project was to strategically approach the containment and removal all remaining hazardous material from this former refinery of precious metals. All personnel working or visiting the site were also tested for platinum salts.
Works then commenced on the removal of reconstituted stone features from the roof and side elevations of the administration building whilst maintaining the main structural integrity of the building.
Soft and hard strip to the offices, laboratory and stores were completed followed by the removal of underground fuel tanks and an air raid shelter. The deconstruction of the chimneys, tanks and vessels were then undertaken. Finally cut and fill of a section of ground ensured the site was finished to a standard allowing for future use.
Key Health and Safety Risks:
The greatest risks were to personnel during the removal of the hazardous materials and ensuring they were also protected during the pandemic whilst completing a complex demolition project in West London on a live site.
High standards of control were also required over noise, dust and vibration due to the site’s location within the capital city.