Client
Location
Alloa, Scotland
Goodbye asbestos, hello safe structure
O-I Glass Ltd, a leading glass container manufacturer, required extensive renovations to their conveyor building in Alloa. Standing at an impressive height of 30 metres, this structure housed critical conveyor belt systems that fed directly into the glass furnace and the existing roof and walls were covered with asbestos cement sheeting that needed to be replaced.
Challenge
The project presented several significant challenges:
- Extreme height: Working at a height of 30 metres meant the need for specialised safety measures to protect the workforce.
- Asbestos removal: The careful handling and disposal of hazardous materials were essential to ensure compliance with health and safety regulations.
- Operational sensitivity: The conveyor belt was under strict instructions to remain protected from dust and rainfall, as any contamination could lead to imperfections in the glass production process.
- Production continuity: The potential for asbestos entering the furnace posed a serious risk, as it could halt production entirely.
- Weather dependency: The work had to be precisely timed to avoid exposure to the elements.
- Confined spaces: Navigating tight spaces around the conveyor system added complexity to the project.
“OI’s number 1 priority is safety. We selected Togail for this task as we have had great experience working with them in the past. We put our faith in Togail to deliver a safe and successful project and they exceeded our high expectations. Togail’ s expertise in handling high-risk renovations was evident throughout this project. Their innovative approach to working at extreme heights while safeguarding our sensitive production processes has set a new standard in industrial renovations. The project’s success has been key to maintaining our production and keeping our site safe.”
Jamie Rankine
UK Engineering Leader at O-I Glass Ltd
What Togail Roofing & Cladding Ltd Did
The team adopted a sectional approach to stripping and replacing the roofing, allowing them to minimise exposure and protect the internal environment. Rigorous cleaning of existing sheeting rails was conducted to prevent dust contamination. Existing hook bolts were carefully bagged and removed to avoid any falling debris during the process.
Recognising the complexity of the project, Togail deployed three non-working supervisors on-site to ensure that all safety protocols were adhered to throughout the duration of the work. The use of “bird cage” scaffolding facilitated safe access for external work, while careful planning allowed for safe practices within the confined spaces around the conveyor.
The Impact
The successful completion of the conveyor building renovation has yielded significant benefits for O-I Glass Ltd. The upgraded facility now boasts an asbestos-free roof and wall cladding, greatly enhancing workplace safety and ensuring operational longevity. This transformation aligns with O-I’s commitment to creating a safer and more sustainable manufacturing environment.
Maintaining a dust-free environment throughout the renovation, Togail Roofing & Cladding Ltd enabled O-I Glass to continue production without interruption or quality concerns. This achievement is particularly noteworthy given the sensitivity of glass manufacturing processes, where even minor contamination can lead to imperfections in the final product.
Moreover, the successful management of high-risk renovations while prioritising safety and operational continuity has established a new standard that can be replicated across similar projects in the industry. The careful planning and execution demonstrated by Togail mitigated risks and showcased innovative approaches to complex challenges.
