High-Level Bridge Cleaning
Location:
South Coast, Hampshire
Service:
Specialist High-Level Exterior Cleaning
Contractor:
Whelan Hygiene Services
Project Overview
Whelan Hygiene Services was commissioned to undertake specialist cleaning works on a major reinforced concrete road bridge spanning a busy waterway.
The structure had accumulated years of environmental contamination including atmospheric pollution, algae, organic growth and surface staining. Access to the bridge soffit presented a significant challenge due to its height above the water and the need to maintain public safety throughout the operation.
Working at height, over water and adjacent to a live highway required meticulous planning and coordination.
Our Solution
Following a comprehensive site survey, our team developed a detailed work programme incorporating specialist access equipment and strict health and safety controls.
Using an articulated MEWP positioned beneath the bridge, our IPAF-qualified operators safely accessed the underside of the bridge deck to carry out detailed cleaning of the concrete structure.
Working in conjunction with traffic management, sections of the bridge carriageway were safely controlled to allow access equipment and cleaning systems to be positioned without compromising public safety.
The cleaning programme included:
- High-level concrete bridge cleaning
- Removal of atmospheric pollution and traffic film
- Elimination of algae and biological growth
- Steam cleaning of structural concrete
- Low-pressure washing to protect bridge surfaces
- Cleaning around expansion joints and structural features
- Final visual inspection of cleaned surfaces
Our vehicle-mounted hot water and steam cleaning system delivered consistent pressure over extended hose runs, allowing operatives to work efficiently from ground level while reaching difficult access areas.
Specialist Equipment
The project utilised specialist commercial equipment including:
- Vehicle-mounted hot wash and steam cleaning system
- High-capacity pressure washing unit
- Long-reach hose reel system
- Mobile Elevating Work Platform (MEWP)
- Full traffic management equipment
- LED lighting for night operations
- Spill prevention and environmental protection equipment
Our Approach
Whelan Hygiene Services implemented a structured operational plan, ensuring each stage of the project was delivered safely, efficiently and in full compliance with environmental legislation.
Hazardous Waste Clearance
A full survey of the facilities was undertaken to identify and classify all waste streams. Hazardous materials were safely removed, segregated and transported through licensed waste carriers and approved disposal facilities, ensuring full environmental compliance and traceability.
Industrial Deep Cleaning
Following clearance, the hangars were subjected to large-scale industrial pressure washing and deep cleaning. Specialist equipment was used to remove contaminants, residues and debris from floors, structural surfaces and operational areas.
Sanitisation and Environmental Restoration
Once the primary cleaning phase was completed, the hangars underwent deep sanitisation and decontamination procedures to restore the buildings to a safe operational condition. Specialist cleaning agents and controlled processes were used to ensure all surfaces were properly treated.
Structural Remedial Works
During the inspection phase, areas of roof deterioration were identified which posed a risk of further damage. Remedial works were carried out to repair and reinforce roof structures, helping prevent water ingress and future contamination.
Health & Safety
Due to the complexity of the project, extensive planning was undertaken before work commenced.
Measures included:
- Site-specific Risk Assessments and Method Statements (RAMS)
- Traffic management in accordance with highway requirements
- IPAF-qualified operators
- Working at Height Regulations compliance
- Daily equipment inspections
- Exclusion zones
- Environmental protection measures to prevent contamination entering the watercourse
- Continuous liaison with the principal contractor and local authority
The Result
The completed works restored the appearance of the bridge, removing years of accumulated dirt and environmental staining while improving the overall presentation of the structure.
The project demonstrated Whelan Hygiene Services’ ability to safely deliver specialist cleaning operations in technically demanding environments involving:
- High-level access
- Live highways
- Marine environments
- Restricted access locations
- Large-scale concrete structures
The client commended the professionalism of the team, attention to health and safety, and the quality of the finished result.
Why Whelan Hygiene Services?
At Whelan Hygiene Services, we specialise in projects where specialist access, experience and planning make the difference.
Our capabilities include:
- High-level bridge cleaning
- Bridge soffit cleaning
- Concrete structure cleaning
- Shopping centres
- Stadiums and sports venues
- Industrial buildings
- Warehouses
- Public infrastructure
- Steam cleaning
- Pressure washing
- Graffiti removal
- Bird fouling removal
- Building façade restoration
With specialist vehicle-mounted hot water and steam cleaning equipment, long-reach hose systems, IPAF-qualified operators and comprehensive RAMS, we deliver safe, efficient and professional cleaning solutions for challenging environments across the UK.