The assembly and dismantling of metal structures at height are among the most specific and technically complex activities in construction and industry. The work is often carried out in difficult-to-reach environments, with limited access and in close proximity to operating production facilities, installations or infrastructure sites.
In such activities, rope access and industrial mountaineering allow for safe and efficient execution without the need to build large-scale scaffolding or use heavy lifting equipment throughout the site.
The method is widely used in the assembly, dismantling, replacement and reinforcement of various metal elements and structures in industry, construction and infrastructure.
Activities may include work on – production and industrial buildings; metal halls; roof structures; technological platforms; service metal elements; chimneys and facilities; load-bearing structures; bridge and infrastructure facilities; advertising structures and billboards; installations and pipe systems.
In many cases, work is carried out at great heights or in confined spaces where standard access is difficult.
In tall and complex structures, the construction of scaffolding is often associated with – high costs; long assembly time; difficult organization; limitation of the work area.
Industrial mountaineering allows for faster start of work, more flexible organization, lower logistical costs, minimal load on the site.
Through rope access, the following can be reached:
high metal structures;
confined spaces;
hard-to-reach joints;
roof and facade elements;
complex structural details.
The method allows for safe work even with complex geometry and limited access.
For active industrial facilities, it is often important that production is not stopped. Working via rope access:
reduces the need for heavy machinery;
limits the occupation of space;
allows for work in an active environment;
facilitates site organization.
Before commencing work, the following are conducted:
inspection of the site;
assessment of access;
risk analysis;
planning of installation activities;
determination of safety methods.
This is crucial for the safe and efficient execution of the project.
Depending on the specifics of the site, the following may be set up:
rope access systems;
anchoring points;
temporary safety systems;
working platforms and positioning zones.
The goal is to ensure safe conditions for working at height.
Depending on the project, the following may be performed:
installation of metal elements;
assembly of structures;
reinforcement of joints;
installation of technological equipment;
replacement of structural elements;
positioning and fixing of metal details.
When necessary, lifting equipment, rope positioning systems, and specialized installation techniques are used.
Dismantling activities require special attention due to the risks of:
instability of elements;
falling objects;
limited access;
working in a complex industrial environment.
The work includes controlled disassembly, securing of elements, safe lowering or transportation, and organization of the work zone.
The installation and dismantling of metal structures at height require strict adherence to safety measures. During the execution of these activities, the following are used:
dual-safety systems;
certified equipment;
personal protective equipment (PPE);
positioning systems;
preliminary risk assessment;
a rescue plan and emergency procedures.
All activities must be performed by qualified specialists with experience in rope access and industrial alpinism.
Work via rope access is particularly suitable when:
the structure is at a great height;
access is restricted;
scaffolding would be inefficient;
the work zone is hard to reach;
deadlines are short;
production must not be interrupted.
The installation and dismantling of metal structures via rope access is an effective solution for working on high and hard-to-reach sites in industry and construction. Thanks to industrial alpinism, activities can be performed safely, quickly, and with minimal impact on the working environment and the production process.
Proper planning, professional execution, and strict adherence to safety measures are key to the reliable performance of installation and dismantling activities at height.
