Mezzanine Steel Floor & Escalator Removal, West Quay, Southampton

Jim Wise Demolition Ltd were appointed to carry out the controlled removal of an internal mezzanine steel floor and redundant escalator system at West Quay, Southampton.

Operating within a live demolition environment, this project required a carefully sequenced dismantling strategy to ensure structural stability, controlled lowering of steelwork, and full compliance with CDM and demolition best practice.

As an experienced Demolition Contractor, our approach centred around safety, precision and structural control at every stage.

Scope of Works

The works included:

• Removal of an existing structural mezzanine steel floor
• Dismantling and removal of a redundant escalator system
• Manual disconnection of bolted steel connections
• Oxy-fuel cutting of welded elements where required
• Mechanical lowering of steelwork using a 14-tonne excavator with rotating grab
• Segregation and recycling of all steel materials

All works were delivered in accordance with BS 6187:2011 and CDM Regulations 2015.
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Our Approach

1. Pre-Planning & Structural Sequencing

Before works commenced, our team reviewed structural load paths to ensure:

• No premature collapse
• Stability maintained throughout dismantling
• Sequential removal of steel members
• Controlled mechanical support prior to final release

This level of planning is what differentiates a professional Demolition Company from general strip-out contractors.
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2. Establishing Safe Working Zones

Strict exclusion zones were implemented beneath and around all dismantling areas.

Control measures included:

• Barrier protection and signage
• No personnel permitted beneath live works
• Banksman-controlled excavator movements
• Full hot works permit system
• Continuous site supervision

Risk ratings were reduced from high (25) to low (5) through implemented controls — demonstrating structured, professional demolition management.
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3. Controlled Steel Removal

Steel beams and structural members were:

• Manually disconnected using trained operatives
• Supported by mechanical plant prior to final release
• Carefully lowered to ground level
• Directly transferred into 40-yard recycling bins

No uncontrolled dropping of materials was permitted at any stage.

This type of internal structural dismantling demands experienced supervision — something we deliver consistently as a national Demolition Contractor.
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Plant & Equipment Used

• 14-tonne excavator fitted with rotating grab
• Scissor lifts and mobile access towers
• Oxy-fuel cutting equipment
• Dust suppression systems
• Fire protection equipment

All operators held CPCS or IPAF certification where required.

Environmental Responsibility

• All removed steelwork was segregated and recycled
• Dust suppression implemented during cutting
• Noise managed and monitored
• Spill kits available on site

Sustainability and controlled waste handling remain central to our approach as a responsible Demolition Company.
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The Outcome

✔ Safe removal of mezzanine and escalator

✔ Zero uncontrolled structural movement

✔ Full compliance with demolition regulations

✔ Steel recycled responsibly

✔ Programme maintained

Projects of this nature demonstrate the importance of appointing a specialist Demolition Contractor with experience in internal structural dismantling.
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Why Choose Jim Wise Demolition?

If you require a trusted Demolition Company capable of delivering:

• Structural dismantling
• Commercial demolition
• Internal strip-out
• Steel frame removal
• Controlled mechanical demolition

👉 Visit our homepage to learn more: Demolition Contractor – Jim Wise Demolition Ltd