Project: Imperial College London - RCS1 Level 2-3 Refurbishment – Lead paint removal and surface preparation
Client: Imperial College London
Address: South Kensington Campus - Exhibition Road, London, SW7 2BX
Project Management: Stace LLP
Duration: Approximately 4 months
Project Overview
As part of the refurbishment of a laboratory within the RCS1 Level 2-3 building at Imperial College, lead-based paint was identified on the existing structural steel trusses. Advanced Eco Blast was engaged to safely remove the lead-containing coatings and prepare the steelwork for a new protective paint system.
During the survey process, deteriorating lead-based paint was also identified on the concrete soffit, where significant peeling and degradation had occurred. Our scope included the removal of all hazardous paint coatings from these surfaces to expose clean, sound concrete ready for subsequent refurbishment works.
Given the hazardous nature of the materials, comprehensive dust containment and contamination control measures were implemented throughout the project to ensure the safety of both site personnel and the surrounding environment. All lead-contaminated waste generated during the works was managed and disposed of in accordance with current environmental and hazardous waste regulations.
Scope of Works
- Shot Blasting of Steel Structure & Coating Application: Removal of lead-based paint from structural steel trusses through abrasive shot blasting, preparing steelwork to SA 2.5 standard, and applying a primer coating followed by the final top-coat system.
- Concrete Soffit Treatment: Abrasive blasting of concrete soffits to remove deteriorated lead-containing coatings.
- Lead Hazard Management & Environmental Controls: Implementation of lead hazard management procedures, installation of containment systems to prevent lead dust migration, and provision of dust suppression throughout the works.
- Hazardous Waste Management: Collection and disposal of hazardous waste in full compliance with relevant environmental regulations.
Outcome
The project was successfully delivered within the operational constraints of a live educational environment, providing clean and fully prepared surfaces ready for the next phase of the laboratory refurbishment programme. The works were completed safely, with effective containment of hazardous materials and full compliance with environmental and health and safety requirements.
