Rope Access Geotechnical Restoration in Al Ula Private Project
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Acrobatica Spider Access was entrusted with a highly specialized geotechnical restoration project in a confidential natural reserve in Saudi Arabia. The client required the removal of visible cement grouting left by a previous contractor during a hazard mitigation job. The site, located within an ecologically sensitive area, demanded minimal environmental impact, precise rope access execution, and non-invasive restoration methods.
SCOPE OF WORK
The scope of work involved the installation and testing of a specialized rope access anchor system, including the use of deviation and rebelay anchor points to ensure safe and efficient vertical mobility. A detailed conditional survey of the sandstone escarpment was carried out, with comprehensive mapping of all critical zones requiring restoration.
The team performed mechanical removal of hardened cement grouting using precision bush-hammer adaptors, carefully preserving the natural integrity of the rock surface. To complete the restoration, high-pressure water jetting was applied to replicate the natural effects of weathering, allowing the treated surfaces to blend seamlessly with the surrounding environment.
CHALLENGES
The Acrobatica Spider Access team encountered three major challenges during the project, each requiring innovative, non-traditional solutions.
1. The first was the complexity of accessing the work location. The sandstone escarpments varied in height from 50 to 200 meters, featuring vertical faces and severe overhangs. With no natural or structural anchor points available, the team installed custom anchor systems using specialized chemical resin. Rebelay anchor points were strategically placed on the descending lines to navigate overhangs and enable safe, precise positioning close to the working zones.
2. The second challenge involved the removal of hardened cement grouting while restoring the escarpment to its natural appearance. This delicate task required careful grinding and
chipping using power tools, followed by surface refinement using bush-hammer adaptors for a natural stone finish. High-pressure water jets were then applied to simulate natural weathering, allowing the treated areas to visually integrate with the untouched sections of the rock face.
3. The third challenge centered around the lifting and lowering of heavy tools and equipment in a remote, vertical environment. Equipment such as pressure washing machines and high-pressure hoses was transported using tension lines, mechanical hauling systems, and petrol-powered winches. These methods ensured safe, efficient equipment movement without compromising safety or the surrounding environment.
THE TEAM
At Acrobatica Spider Access, we are dedicated to delivering comprehensive solutions for complex access challenges, particularly in geotechnical environments. Our expertise is especially effective in managing work on steep slopes and in remote locations, where conventional access methods are impractical. By combining advanced rope access techniques with in-depth geotechnical knowledge, we deliver innovative, safe, and cost-effective solutions that enhance both operational performance and site safety.
• Project Management is led by a Ph.D. in Geological Sciences, with specialized knowledge in geotechnical engineering, mineralogy (metallic and non-metallic), and advanced rock laboratory methodologies. His academic and field expertise enables him to provide high-level consultation and technical direction throughout the project lifecycle.
• Supervision is handled by IRATA Level 3 certified professionals with over 10 years of experience in geotechnical hazard mitigation and rope access safety systems. Their leadership, technical oversight, and communication skills ensure smooth project execution and adherence to safety protocols.
• Our Technicians are highly skilled rope access climbers and geotechnical specialists holding IRATA Level 1 and 2 certifications. Their qualifications are further enhanced with IPAF and PASMA training, enabling them to perform safely and effectively in high-risk, vertical environments.
ACCESS SOLUTIONS
Acrobatica Spider Access implemented a combination of advanced lead climbing techniques and IRATA-compliant rope access methods, following both UIAA and IRATA safety protocols.
• Our access strategy included rope techniques such as ascending, descending, rope transfers, reanchoring, re-belay systems, tensioned lines, lowering, and hauling.
• All anchorage systems were installed using EN 795-certified anchor points and tested following BS 7883:2019 standards to ensure maximum safety, stability, and reliability throughout the project.
CONCLUSION
Through a multidisciplinary approach and a strong commitment to safety and quality, Acrobatica Spider Access successfully delivered the project to the highest standards. A total of 2 kilometers of escarpment, reaching heights of up to 500 meters, was thoroughly surveyed and mapped. The team meticulously removed over 4,000 square meters of cement grouting, carefully restoring the sandstone surfaces to their natural appearance using advanced rope access techniques.
Over 5,040 man-hours were completed without a single incident or accident, reflecting our dedication to safe working practices. All 40 Work Inspection Reports (WIRs) were reviewed and approved by the client and their consultant without any remarks or non-conformities—further reinforcing the quality and precision of the work delivered.
