RSS equipment on Scottish project

UK-based equipment supplier Rope and Sling Specialists is providing a variety of lifting and rigging equipment, including branded chain blocks, to engineering and construction company BAM Nuttall at the Cross Tay Link Road infrastructure project in Perth, Scotland.

RSS-branded chain blocks are currently being used for bridge formwork. (Photo: RSS)

RSS is also providing periodic LOLER (Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998) inspections and other services to the project. 

The Cross Tay Link Road is the central element of the Perth Transport Futures Project, a programme of major upgrades to improve the road network around the city.

It will address the area’s long-term transport needs, while tackling congestion and pollution. It is the biggest infrastructure job ever undertaken by Perth and Kinross Council.

RSS’ offering, totalling 1,500 assets, is all supported by Motion Software’s RFID technology.

Sean Maslen (right), of RSS, with Martin Wood, of BAM Nuttall. (Photo: RSS)

Gordon Orr, RSS, said, “As a preferred supplier, we have to ensure that BAM has all the lifting and rigging gear it needs, when they need it, and that it is fully compliant in line with LOLER.

“The whole thing is bound together by an RFID system that is changing the way that blocks, shackles, hooks, slings, and harnesses are inspected and monitored on such sites.”

Chain blocks

RSS-branded chain blocks up to 25 tonne capacity have been used for a variety of lifting operations.

Most recently, they have been used for bridge formwork, where, as Orr explained, BAM created a temporary structure that supported the weight of wet concrete during construction of the bridge deck. Lever hoists and shackles are also in daily use.

The Cross Tay Link Road is due to open in 2025.