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.