To prevent inconvenience to the surrounding area as much as possible, each bridge had to be removed and replaced in a single weekend. Due to the tight schedule, a very challenging method was chosen, which required maximum commitment and expertise from all parties involved.
In preparation, the asbestos was first removed under the supervision and with advice of DDM specialists. A crane was placed on both sides of the canal. At the same time, the concrete road deck was removed from the bridges by sawing it into parts and lifting it out. Part of the steel structure was also removed. More than 560 tons of concrete and 236 tons of steel were removed to make the bridge light enough for sailing.
After sailing, the bridge was lowered and deposited on various outriggers. DDM has facilities in Amsterdam to unload this bridge. In order to ship the bridge there, the arch first had to be removed. Only then was the bridge low enough for water transport, passing under the other bridges over the Amsterdam-Rhine Canal.
Upon arrival in Amsterdam, unloading began immediately. The concrete deck was sawn into parts and lifted off the boat. All concrete and steel were removed. 100% of the material is recycled from recognized companies.
The Quality and Health, Safety and the Environment policy is an ongoing process. That is why DDM is continuously working on improving all these areas to keep improving safety levels.
DDM was rewarded with a World Demolition Award in the Civils category.
Removing 5 arch bridges over the Amsterdam Rhine Canal was an intensive job. The schedule was tight and the expectations of all employees were high. But with a joint effort and incredible passion, DDM has successfully removed and recycled the 5 bridges within schedule.
Every year DDM holds a number of safety days to boost safety awareness.
Last year's objectives are evaluated and new objectives are determined. All managers and all operational employees discuss safety, policy and vision together. In addition to all regular training courses, DDM offers workshops and training to all employees during these days to take the qualities of the professionals to an even higher level. Together with all DDM employees, we are working on an increasingly higher safety ethic. Everyone at DDM carries out their work in a safe and healthy manner, with sufficient attention to the environment. And they're getting better at it. This applies to everyone; back to work healthy and safe and back home healthy.
Dow has awarded DDM a certificate for Outstanding Safety Performance.
Following various demolition and disassembly projects that DDM carries out worldwide for Dow Chemical Company, DDM has received recognition for its excellent safety performance during implementation. DDM always continues to strive for a higher level of safety. Safety First! Read below a quote from the letter that DDM received from Dow. “In summary, DDM continues to deliver excellent performance in safely planning and executing all work related to Dow demolition projects. We truly believe that your company's exceptional efforts continue to be a reflection of the leadership and support of you and the entire DDM Management team. "
Dirk was the architect of this website
