Atlanta Tornado

Replies to This Discussion

PermalinkReply byJohn O'ConnellonMarch 22, 2008 at 2:59pm

when this happens in NY once in a blue moon, they are required to scaffold off the side walk and then work from hanging scaffolds and put the material inside. I do not know why your building dept has let them do this, unless they feel this is the fastest way to get the glass out...

good luck

John

PermalinkReply byDavid RhodesonMarch 23, 2008 at 1:45pm

Here is some pics of some of the highrise glass damage and other structural issues
http://community.fireengineering.com/photo/photo/slideshow?feed_url...

PermalinkReply byScott NachemanonApril 26, 2008 at 11:54am

A bit of a delayed response....but...

I have dealt with this on several occaisions in several different dense urban locations. As John said, sidewalk protection is a must, but regardless we always bring materials INTO the building. As we all know, glass falling from a highrise can 'fly' for several blocks. Blowing it out into the street seems ludicrous. Not the kind of liability I want on my watch...

The removal can be done by harnessed individuals from the inside, or via swing stage scaffold, house rig or rope access from the exterior. Regardless, all debris is brought into the building.

Its often helpful to duct tape the perimeter and body of the window so that you can keep shards intact. Also, although we love to smash things, by simply removing the glazing gasket from one side or the other, you can easily get large sections of the window out. If its a structural silicone glazing system (new curtainwall types) try cutting the silicone betweeen panes with a utility knife first.
Just my two cents....
SGN