User case / Ramspol
Safe maintenance at the exceptional Ramspol storm surge barrier: Working to ensure the safety of the Netherlands
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The Ramspol storm surge barrier protects large parts of the Noordoostpolder and Overijssel from high water. This remarkable flood defence, situated between the Ketelmeer and the Zwarte Meer, is unique in the world. Whereas other storm surge barriers use sluice gates or doors, the Ramspol barrier consists of three enormous inflatable bellows which, during high water, form a water barrier 240 metres long and 10 metres high.
To ensure the reliability of this important flood defence, periodic inspections, maintenance work and repairs are carried out. Safety plays a crucial role during these operations. The work must be carried out under positive pressure, which means it must be conducted in accordance with the WOD-SOE guidelines drawn up by the SWOD. Hytech-Pommec is involved in the project to monitor air quality and ensure safe working conditions within the confined space of the bellows.
01 / in general
Maintenance to prevent flooding
Maintenance work on the bellows of the Ramspol seal involves special circumstances. The work takes place in an enclosed space where operations are carried out under pressure. The bellows therefore form a confined space in which continuous supervision is required.
Air quality is a key concern. The presence of sludge and organic material can cause CO₂ levels to rise. Without adequate monitoring, this can pose risks to the people working inside the bellows.
In addition, it must be ensured that everyone who enters the bellows can exit safely. The same applies to tools and materials used during the work.
solution
The Solution; what do you need
Hytech-Pommec supports the project with a specialist team responsible for the safety of the working environment inside the bellows. This is also known as a diving medical team. It includes a diving medical supervisor who is in contact with a diving doctor. The team operates in day and night shifts.
Before work begins, the bellows are inspected and pressurised. During the work, continuous measurements are taken to monitor air quality. Particular attention is paid to the concentrations of oxygen and carbon dioxide (CO₂).
Continuous monitoring enables anomalies to be detected immediately and, if necessary, immediate action to be taken.
Throughout the project, specialists from Hytech-Pommec will be on site to ensure the safety of everyone involved.
02 / quality
Continuous air quality monitoring
Specialists carry out continuous measurements inside the bellows throughout the works. Among other things, oxygen and CO₂ concentrations are monitored to ensure a safe working environment.
Pressure management and airlock operation
The work takes place in a pressurised environment. Hytech-Pommec, with a specialist diving medical team, is responsible for pressurising the bellows and supports the management of pressure conditions during the work. The airlock and the connection between the work area and the access systems are also operated.
Access control and registration
A security team registers all persons and materials entering the bellows. Upon leaving the work area, checks are carried out to ensure that everyone has returned safely and that no materials have been left behind.
03 / safety
Safety supervision & Collaboration for safe maintenance
Throughout the project, the welfare of staff working inside the bellows is actively monitored. A safe working environment is ensured through continuous monitoring of environmental conditions and regular communication with the staff on site.
In addition to Hytech-Pommec, various specialist organisations are involved in carrying out the inspections, repairs and mechanical maintenance of the bellows. This collaboration enables maintenance to be carried out safely and efficiently, whilst maintaining the reliability of the storm surge barrier.
The result
Thanks to continuous monitoring of air quality, careful pressure management and strict safety procedures, maintenance work can be carried out safely.
In this way, Hytech-Pommec contributes to the maintenance of one of the most remarkable flood defences in the Netherlands – a flood defence that plays an essential role in protecting the hinterland against high water and storm surges.
The project in pictures
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Hytech-Pommec / Life support