| Installation of airbags to provide additional overhead protection |
DESCRIPTION
During the annual Winter Shutdown at Rugby Cement Works it was found that there were two jobs, both on the critical path, which impacted upon each other. Work was needed to be done on the Hog’s Back refractory lining at the same time as on the flash drier liners. The Hog’s Back is 92m above the drier, connected by large diameter ducting. Protection would be needed for the personnel working below against any falling material.
In addition to the standard roof protection nets fitted to the refractory lining in the Hog’s Back, it was decided to trial a series of airbags, and three were installed at different levels in the ducting. They sat on steel beams, and were designed to cushion and absorb the impact of anything falling from above. The airbags sealed tight up against the side of the Downcomer ducting.
BENEFITS
• Re-usable system.
• Rugged construction.
• Can be manufactured to any size application.
• Tested by the Building Research Establishment and each capable of withstanding at least 400 kg from 9m.
• Relatively quick and easy to install.
• Can be installed at various levels depending upon the application.
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