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RIVER AVON CONTAINMENT CURTAIN DEPLOYMENT/RECOVERY

RIVER AVON CONTAINMENT CURTAIN DEPLOYMENT/RECOVERY

PROJECT BRIEF To compile a strategy and series of safe working practices for the mobilisation and demobilisation of our prototype containment curtain measuring 60m in horizontal length and 4m in vertical draft in a fast flowing, narrow river with abutments, cutwaters and pier structures all within close proximity.
RESPONSIBILITIES As director of operations and principle project manager I was ultimately responsible for ensuring that the sequence of carrying out all works was both methodical and logical in an effort to create a successful outcome without injury to personnel or damage to the equipment or supporting structures. Securing the curtain in situ with chains, quick release mechanisms and ground anchors every metre was an arduous and complex task and it was my responsibility to deliver the options based on the conditions presented during the deployment and recovery process.
CLIENT MMC Diving Services | Aquatic Engineering | Dyer and Butler Ltd
CHALLENGES Deploying and recovering a 240m2 containment curtain in a narrow, fast flowing high energy river was possibly one of the most dangerous projects I have ever been accountable for.  This task was both complex and challenging due to the incalculable conditions presented daily.  High volumes of water regularly exceeded 25 cumecs through the penstocks towards the working zone which required systems and strategies to be implemented and vigorously managed throughout the lifecycle of the project.  Sheer velocities alone blew out several “supplied” containment curtains beyond economic repair resulting in myself and my colleague to take matters into our own hands by re-designing a “prototype” 60m x 4m heavy duty version to enable the project to continue.
RISK RATING High Risk
OUTCOME Project ongoing
Stacey Rivers Project Management