Stormwater Pipe Remediation Ventilation Case Study | Control Hire

Control Hire supplied a mobile pneumatic ventilation and dust filtration system for remediation works inside a live 260m stormwater pipe. The setup controlled airborne concrete dust and fumes while allowing crews to safely complete structural repairs in a confined space environment with no electrical equipment permitted.

Control Hire

ventilation

Overview

Control Hire supported remediation works on a 260m section of ageing stormwater pipe where concrete cancer had compromised the structure. Our clients crews were tasked with breaking out damaged concrete, exposing and treating corroded reinforcement, applying anti corrosion coatings, and rebuilding the pipe internally.

The environment presented several challenges. The pipe remained live with flowing water, meaning strict safety controls were required. Electrical equipment was not permitted, and all gear needed to be mobilised in line with tidal movements. The repair process also generated concrete dust and airborne contaminants that required effective ventilation and filtration to maintain safe working conditions.

The Solution

Control Hire designed a fully pneumatic ventilation and dust control system to operate safely within the live stormwater environment. With no access to electrical power, diesel compressors positioned outside the pipe powered the entire setup.

A mobile ventilation system was developed so crews could relocate equipment daily as tides shifted. The solution focused on capturing and filtering airborne dust at the source while maintaining consistent airflow through the confined space.

A custom plenum and filter wall system was installed to manage dust extraction. Airborne particles generated during concrete removal and repair works were drawn through multiple filtration stages before being discharged. This helped reduce worker exposure to respirable and inhalable dust while supporting compliance with site safety requirements.

The setup allowed our client to carry out critical structural repairs efficiently, without compromising safety or operational constraints within the live pipeline.