At-a-Glance / Key Facts
Bespoke Fritted Glass Replacement For A TfL London Site
Due to an overhead glass breakage, this TfL site had to close a number of elevators beneath the atrium because of the risk to people below. Limited O+M information and tight access restraints meant the client required a specialist glazing contractor experienced in high level glass replacements.
Sky Access UK were instructed to procure replacement glazing with a bespoke frit design while also developing a safe system of work to access the structure and complete the repairs. Before the main works commenced, we manufactured a bespoke sample panel with multiple frit opacity levels for client approval.
The Challenge
Fractured Overhead Glass With Restricted Access
The fractured glazing was positioned overhead, with elevators and public areas beneath the atrium. Additional protection was required internally and externally during removal because the external face of the horizontal glass was already fractured.
The site also had limited O+M information and tight access constraints. The methodology needed to bring together different access systems, protect people below and allow the replacement to be completed within a restricted railway environment.
The Solution
Rope Access, Gantries And Specialist Vacuum Lifting
With a history of undertaking high level glazing replacements, the Sky Access team developed a safe system of work with the client to access the fractured glazing and complete the replacement safely. The method required several access systems to work together, including rope access and internal / external gantry systems.
Using a variety of specialist vacuum lifters and a city crane, our technicians safely removed and replaced the existing glazing. The bespoke access plan allowed the team to manage the difficult overhead location while maintaining the required protection internally and externally.
The Results
Night Works Completed Within Engineering Hours
The replacement works were completed within a tight timescale, working at night during engineering hours. This allowed the glazing to be replaced while reducing disruption to the TfL site and managing the safety constraints created by the overhead breakage.
The works were completed to the satisfaction of both the client and the TfL team in attendance. The project was signed off with positive feedback from all involved, providing a safe replacement solution for a complex overhead railway glazing issue.