Chimney Saddle Tranquiliser PIate Removal

The clarifier tank at the Chimney Saddle Water Treatment Plant had asbestos cement sheet tranquiliser plates that had become friable over many years of service. Many had broken and the tank was running at a reduced efficiency. The project was to remove the cement sheet tranquiliser plates and replace them with stainless steel plates.

The plates were removed with the tank full of water. A coordinated team effort was required between commercial divers, crane operators and asbestos removalists. Divers loaded the plates into a crane basket, which were then transported to a laydown area to be loaded into skips with hydrocarbons and VOCs like hydrogen cyanide. Works were undertaken in winter when water consumption is at its lowest ebb.