Scaffolding Removed from Notre-Dame
Work has started to clear melted scaffolding from Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris, France, marking progress in the rebuilding efforts after the devastating fire last year.
In April 2019, a massive fire broke out at the 850-year-old famous cathedral, which already had much of its structure enclosed in scaffolding. The fire left the roof completely destroyed, and the scaffolding tubes were left as a tangled and melted mess.
Scaffold Removed from Notre-Dame
This week, workers and scaffolders have a delicate task of removing the melted steel tubes to construct a new scaffold structure over the building damaged by fire.
The process of cutting the melted steel tubes poses a risk to the restoration work, as it may easily damage the limestone walls supporting the invaluable ceiling vaults.
4 months to complete
It’s estimated that removing the melted scaffold tubes from the cathedral could take up to 4 months by the scaffolders. Due to this, it’s unlikely that you’ll see the cathedral in its full glory soon. Social distancing measures may also prolong the work.
The Risk Assessment
At Scaffolding Direct London, we advise performing a risk assessment of your site’s scaffolding and structures. Consider factors that may affect stability, such as the scaffold configuration (sheeted, netted, fully boarded), location (wind exposure, etc.), and environment (nearby activities). A safe scaffold with a demonstrated periodic inspection plan typically meets the standards of enforcing health and safety agencies.
Healthy Scaffolders, Happier workers
Construction and scaffolding workers in London typically don’t need extra precautions beyond common safety procedures. A mix of engineering controls, safe work habits, and PPE may be required for worker protection against hazards.
Coughing and sneezing can spread COVID-19, making construction workers more vulnerable to the disease due to close contact on the job. Touching equipment, such as poles, ladders, and tools, can also increase the risk of infection. To prevent transmission, it’s important to avoid touching the face, eyes, or mouth while wearing PPE, even if it gets uncomfortable. The simplest and most effective measure to avoid infection is to regularly wash your hands.
