Fall protection company Eurosafe Solutions has ensured safe access to Salisbury Cathedral, which has the tallest spire in Britain!
The cathedral’s estate department contacted Eurosafe Solutions to replace ropes and provide a safe working environment inside the spire, which measures 123 metres high.
Although scaffolding was already installed at the site, the fact it dated back to 1365 presented a unique set of challenges that had to be overcome. Much of the existing scaffolding was made from old ships and oak beams, which the Eurosafe Solutions team wanted to leave in place as it is historically significant. The company decided that the best approach would be to use rope access techniques to provide the safest solution, whilst providing minimum disturbance in order to retain the integrity of the spire.
Although the spire already contained a number of rigging ropes, these had to be replaced to a high standard to ensure the safety of anyone scaling the inside of the spire. As Eurosafe Solutions has more than 20 years’ experience in providing rope access solutions, this did not present a problem.
Ian Shore, Rope Access Co-ordinator at Eurosafe Solutions, said: “Myself and a colleague were tasked with installing a rope-based safety system to provide site maintenance personnel safe access as they climb up internal ladders within the spire of the cathedral.
He continued: “As experienced rope access technicians, we applied a rope access methodology to overcome on-site issues, such as a lack of direct anchorage and a structure built long before safety requirements were as strict as they are now.
“Working on such an iconic structure is a pleasure as you get to see the behind the scenes areas the public don’t ever see.”
As well as designing and installing a comprehensive range of fall protection systems, Eurosafe Solutions also provides a dedicated test and inspection service. The company offers total project management to ensure that fall protection systems on a building are compliant with the latest regulations, minimising risks to operatives and providing peace of mind to building owners.
For more information on Eurosafe Solutions Ltd call 0114 250 7411 or visit the website www.eurosafesolutions.com.