Minimising Disruption, Maximising Safety: Rope Access for Essential Infrastructure
By Ben Routledge, Rope Access Operations Manager at Sutro Group
In the world of industrial inspections, critical infrastructure maintenance presents unique challenges that often demand innovative approaches. The recent work on the Grade II listed Hull tidal surge barrier offers valuable insights into how specialist rope access techniques can provide solutions where traditional methods fall short.
Keeping critical infrastructure operational
One of the most significant challenges in maintaining critical infrastructure is the need for these assets to remain operational throughout inspection and testing. Traditional scaffolding methods can be disruptive, especially for structures that must be ready for immediate deployment.
The Hull tidal surge barrier demonstrates this perfectly. As an active flood defence system protecting the city, it needed to remain functional during comprehensive inspection work. During the seven-week inspection period by CAN (an RSK Group company), the barrier was activated three times for its flood defence purpose.
The rope access advantage
At Sutro Group, we utilise similar rope access approaches to deliver effective solutions for our clients. Rope access techniques offer several critical advantages over traditional access methods:
1. Minimal operational disruption: Unlike scaffolding, rope access systems can be quickly dismantled when the infrastructure needs to operate.
2. Reduced setup time: Our IRATA-certified technicians can establish rope systems efficiently compared to scaffolding assembly.
3. Access to complex geometry: Many critical infrastructure assets feature challenging angles and confined spaces that are difficult to reach with conventional methods.
4. Cost-effectiveness: The elimination of extensive scaffolding reduces overall project costs while improving efficiency.
5. Enhanced safety: Properly executed rope access reduces risk by minimising the number of personnel at height and the time spent in hazardous environments.
A comprehensive approach
What makes rope access particularly effective is its integration with other specialised techniques. At Sutro Group, we combine rope access with advanced NDT (Non-Destructive Testing) and UAV (drone) inspections to deliver comprehensive asset integrity solutions.
For structures similar to the Hull barrier, this integrated approach allows thorough inspection of critical connection points, welds, and concrete elements while maintaining operational readiness.
The importance of infrastructure maintenance
As our national infrastructure continues to age, the demand for efficient, non-disruptive inspection techniques continues to grow. Climate change is also increasing the operational demands on critical flood defence infrastructure, making minimised downtime during maintenance all the more crucial.
Rope access, combined with advanced inspection technologies, represents a proven, reliable approach to infrastructure maintenance. With decades of development and refinement, these techniques have consistently demonstrated their value. By allowing critical assets to remain operational during inspection and repair work, we help ensure that vital services continue uninterrupted while supporting the serviceable life of these essential structures.
At Sutro Group, we’re proud to offer these rope access services, delivering safer, faster, and more cost-effective solutions for infrastructure challenges across the UK and Europe.
For more information on how Sutro Group’s rope access services can benefit your infrastructure maintenance, contact us at info@sutrogroup.co.uk.