Orbit Tower

Approved contractors to abseil the iconic ArcelorMittal Orbit, a 114.5-metre sculpture and observation tower in the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park in Stratford, London.

Project Title
Orbit Tower
Skills used

Rigging, aid climbing, inspection

Project Details
  • Duration: 4 months
  • Method: Abseiling only
  • Start Time: 07:30
  • Finish Time: 16:00
  • Rigging: Entire structure

Project Scope:

  1. Cleaning: Our primary objective was to clean the ArcelorMittal structure, which had accumulated dirt, grime, and pollution over the years. This not only affected its appearance but also raised concerns about potential corrosion.

  2. Corrosion Inspection: A critical aspect of our work was to examine the bolts and fasteners on the structure for signs of corrosion. This was imperative from a health and safety perspective to ensure the long-term stability of the structure.

Challenges

  1. Monumental Scale: The ArcelorMittal structure is a colossal artwork, reaching heights of 114.5 meters and spanning 163.4 meters. Its intricate lattice-like design presented a logistical and access challenge that could only be overcome through rope access techniques.

  2. Health and Safety: Given the structure's height and complexity, ensuring the safety of our team was paramount. We had to adhere to stringent health and safety protocols to minimise risks associated with working at great heights.

Approach

Contract Abseiling implemented a meticulous approach to address the challenges posed by this unique project:

  1. Specialised Rope Access: We advanced rope access techniques to access every nook and cranny of the structure, ensuring thorough cleaning and inspection.

  2. Risk Assessment: A comprehensive risk assessment was conducted before commencing the project. This assessment guided our safety protocols and allowed us to identify and mitigate potential hazards.

  3. Cleaning and Inspection: Our team used specialised equipment and cleaning agents to restore the structure's pristine appearance. Simultaneously, we meticulously inspected every bolt and fastener for signs of corrosion.

Outcomes

  1. Structural Integrity: Through our corrosion inspection, we were able to identify and address early signs of corrosion, ensuring the long-term stability of the ArcelorMittal structure.

  2. Aesthetic Restoration: The structure's appearance was significantly enhanced, restoring it to its original glory.

  3. Safety: Our commitment to safety resulted in an incident-free project, underscoring our dedication to the well-being of our team and the environment.

Conclusion

Contract Abseiling is proud to have been awarded the contract for this complex and monumental project at the London Olympic Park. Our expertise in rope access techniques, commitment to safety, and dedication to preserving both the structural and aesthetic aspects of the ArcelorMittal structure have proven our capability to undertake challenging assignments of this nature.

This project exemplifies our ability to meet and exceed the expectations of our clients while ensuring the preservation of iconic landmarks for generations to come. We look forward to taking on similar challenges in the future and continuing to set high standards in the field of rope access and structural maintenance.