A devastating fire at a chemical plant in western Germany caused millions in damage
to large areas of the facility.
After successfully fighting the fire, it quickly became apparent that further parts of the
roof structure of an approx. 200 metre long production hall had to be removed.
Due to the high hazards still present at the site, such as the risk of collapse
and a diverse mix of chemicals on all surfaces from the fire
as well as the extensive basement of the entire building complex, this
endeavour proved to be extremely complicated and dangerous.
4 weeks
Hardest manual labour
After 4 weeks of extremely heavy manual labour to remove the riveted steel beams, the demolition company
called on the specialists from the two local associations.
Since a similar operation was mastered with the rescue spider around 10 years ago,
the skills and experience of the THW helpers were in demand.
Darda Steel shear
CC700 S in use
To dismantle the steel structure effectively, the ERS was equipped with our CC700 S Steel Shear
and lifted into place by a mobile crane at a height of around 20 to 40 metres.
Thanks to the remote controllability of the rescue spider, the helpers were able to operate outside the
danger zones.
To keep the rescue spider in the right position, a rope was attached to prevent
twisting due to wind, for example. As this was a physically demanding operation (working at great heights, full concentration of the operators, CsA hazards), the helpers from Remscheid and BGL
were brought together to carry out the operation together.
Due to the high effectiveness of the planned procedure, the helpers were able to complete the operation in 2 shifts and a
total working time of 8 hours instead of the planned 6 days.
We would like to thank all the helpers and emergency services involved who contributed to the success of the operation
Pictures & text: With kind permission of THW Berchtesgadener Land.
