Mastclimbing Platforms for Sydney Harbour Bridge upgrade by Alimak Hek

Upgrading the Sydney Harbour Bridge

The Sydney Harbour Bridge is undergoing an $85 million improvement and upgrade to extend its lifespan indefinitely.

Funded by the NSW Government, the program of works has been designed to:

• Safely upgrade one of the world's great steel bridges.
• Ensure there are no significant changes to the visual identity of the bridge.
• Minimise disruptions to motorists and commuters.

The works are being delivered by Bridgeworks Alliance (BWA), at team consisting of Roads and Traffic Authority (RTA), Baulderstone, Connell Wagner and Austress Freyssinet

To access the bottom arch, BWA are using HEK Mastclimbing workplatforms specifically designed and modified by Alimak Hek Pty Ltd. Special workplatforms have been developed to ensure complete safety while the works proceed.

Installation, operating and maintenance procedures were specifically modified to meet the stringent safety and quality requirements demanded by BWA.

To limit the visual impact of the structure, all components have been painted in the Harbour Bridge's standard colour of "bridge grey".

Temporary platforms have been installed to allow workers to access the site. Over the next months more platforms will be moved into place on the eastern and western face.

When work on the northern section of the bridge is complete, platforms will be moved to the southern end of the bridge to allow work to continue.

Up to 10 Mast climbing workplatforms will be used during the project. They will be progressively moved from the Northern end to the Southern end of the bridge.

To view an interactive animation of the works please visit the following site.

http://www.rta.nsw.gov.au/constructionmaintenance/majorconstructionprojectssydney/sydneyharbourbridge/

Grahame Simpson Former BWA Alliance Manager, Said " Keith, I would like to thank you, your Company and all your people for your contribution to this Project. Your ideas, equipment and innovations have been highly valued and helped us make the construction access system the success that it is. The cooperative spirit that you have encouraged is also appreciated. I trust that Alimak Hek has also benefitted from our association."