Project Detail
Total Drain Cleaning was tasked to clear out 150-year-old brick stormwater pipes in the Sydney CBD.
Project Challenges
- A Pipeline Condition Report was carried out and it was found that these lines were filled with roots, sediment, concrete and some sewer infiltration.
- In total, there was approximately 700m of stormwater line to clear which was located in the heart of Sydney CBD.
- The pipes were made from brick and were over 150 years old so care had to be taken to prevent any damage to the pipes.
Solution
- As the works were located on a busy Sydney CBD road, night works, traffic control and lane closures were required to safely carry out the works.
- A mixture of using the Combination Jet/Vac unit and hand cleaning techniques were utilised to minimise any risk of damaging the pipes.
- The pipes were 1.2m-2m in diameter which enabled us to carry out confined space works.
- Confined Space and Breathing Apparatus equipment was utilised.
- All TDC operators were confined space trained and certified.
- Ventilation Plans, Flow Plans, Traverse Plans, Rescue Plans and Fatigue Management Plans were written up to manage all safety risks associated with these works.
Project Outcome
- Works were completed in approximately 7 nights.
- Large, convoluted roots were effectively removed from the pipe.
- Concrete was removed from the pipe.
- Point of Sewer Infiltration was identified and immediately reported to client for investigation and rectification.
- Due to high level of vigilance in safety protocols and procedures, there was nil impact on productivity or health and wellbeing of our operators.



