42″ High Risk Mains Repair Affinity Water
Otterspool Lane
Our on-call emergency turnkey solutions teams were dispatched to complete a 42″ mains repair which was serving a regional reservoir. The site was on a public bridleway in a forest. It was clear this was a major water leak. We worked to stabilise the main and prevent catastrophic failure. Our personnel deployed large diameter pumps in conjunction with additional lighting so that works could continue throughout the night. We exposed a 42” main with a significant rupture in excess of 2m.
Our out-of-hours teams worked on a rota basis throughout the night to secure the main. Due to the high risk and severity of the repair, we ensured there was director level oversight and support onsite throughout. In addition, a Welfare Unit was set up and all of our CDM conditions actioned. Our SHEQ Manager was also present as well as a Customer Liaison Officer. The damaged part of the main was cut out quickly. A new main was collected and delivered to site. We were able to keep the mains water flowing throughout.
Owing to the location of the works, we secured the site in collaboration with the Parks Warden. The purpose was to prevent access to the public which would put them at risk, but to also minimise disruption by providing a temporary route solution. Site Specific Risk Assessments were carried out quickly and efficiently, alongside detailed Method Statements, which ensured that Zero Harm occurred during the works. We observed Safe Dig techniques to prevent heave or subsidence. Compaction tests were carried out at each 150mm layer.
The cut out of the main happened in record time due to the swift and efficient working of our teams. We fitted specialist collars to provide extra strength. C-40 Concrete Thrust Blocks and Pads were installed for additional support. We then used re-usable (SEM) Backfill and Recycled Type 1 materials to reduce reinstatement costs and reduce waste export. We completed the site with upcycled and reused sub soils and top soil minimising the impact on the environment and reducing costs and time.