Greenock, Scotland

"Managing Risks in Hazardous Conditions"

What's the safest way to decontaminate and demolish (D&D) a semiconductor facility in Scotland?

MWH recently accomplished this goal for a semiconductor facility in Greenock, Scotland. Originally, the client had requested a proposal for preparing the plant for mothballing.

After reviewing the facility, MWH counseled the firm on another approach. Our professionals realized the site was too dangerous for a compliant bid. For that reason, MWH encouraged the client to undergo a complete D&D of the plant.

Controlling Hazards

After looking over the evidence, the client agreed a more environmentally safe approach was imperative. Working closely with the facility staff, MWH developed a comprehensive Environmental Management Plan. This featured instructions on how to reduce hazards during their redevelopment process. It also included steps towards monitoring and controlling dust, asbestos, noise, vibration, surface water and wastes.

During the D&D process, the work was often hazardous. For example, it involved the removal of pipework contaminated with hydrofluoric acid and pyrophoric gas — which explode on contact with air.

Despite the potential dangers, MWH's work was completed without causing adverse safety or environmental impacts. Our experts in sustainable development solutions were also able to salvage materials from the site, which kept waste disposal costs to a minimum.

MWH recycled 989 tons of metals that could be easily and economically reprocessed.