TOPLINE HITS THE ROOF
A number of exciting projects are underway as part of the transformation of Devonport, to enhance its seaside village character.
One of these is the new library which is intended to cater to 21st Century community needs with dedicated areas for teens, children, study and meetings with views over Windsor Reserve and the Waitemata Harbour.
The coveted major contract for the roof on the new building was put out to tender and Topline was chosen for the build. Doug Whitehouse was Topline’s Project Manager working with construction partners Naylor Love to make sure that everything ran smoothly during this key undertaking which started in August 2014 and was completed in the new year. The roofing team used long run COLORSTEEL® pre-painted metal roofing and Half Round profile gutters with deep water-carrying ability for the project. It was important to ensure that the right materials were used to match the architectural style of the building and to make sure it was kept in character with the surrounding area.
Making the roof a safe place
At its highest point the roof is 6 metres high. Scaffolding and specialist access equipment were an essential part of the job. Contractors used a large crane to lift the 23m sheets of metal roofing into place.
Doug Whitehouse says, ‘We have to take every care to minimise the potential for risks and hazards throughout the roofing process and safety is our priority. Every member of the roofing team uses approved safety harnesses and anchor points at all times to minimise risks to themselves and to members of the public. In addition all our roofing staff are height safe certified.’
Topline’s know-how has ensured that the new library is a great contemporary building, handsome, watertight, protected from sun, wind and rain; a welcome resource for the use of the whole community of Devonport for many years to come.
“When work is in progress at a great height on a major roof job, Health and Safety is much more than simply a matter of compliance for Topline. It’s about proactively taking positive steps to ensure we get our people home safely at the end of each shift using the most up-to-date equipment available."
DOUG WHITEHOUSE | TOPLINE PROJECT MANAGER