West Gate Bridge Repainting

The project required adherence to strict safety protocols due to the hazardous nature of the existing paint systems. Touch Projects oversaw the technical aspects of the project, ensuring compliance and obtaining all necessary approvals. The project aimed to improve the bridge’s structural integrity, aesthetics and longevity, preserving this important transport link for the community.

Access to the steel bridge was via an Alimak lift at Pier 15, which transported personnel to the underside of the superstructure, with stairs, ladders and suspended walkways providing further access. The bridge’s steel section was primarily supported by cables running over two towers situated above Piers 12 and 13, which carried a significant portion of the bridge’s total dead weight.

The bridge had two paint systems: internal and external. The internal paint system comprised red lead primer applied to all internal steel surfaces. Special approvals were required before conducting any work that could disturb the hazardous lead paint. The external paint system consisted of a zinc hot metal spray primer with multiple coats of chlorinated rubber, applied during the bridge’s construction in the 1970s. Similarly, special approvals were required for external painting works.

Works involved repainting the bridge with a new four-coat system, replacing the existing paint. The new system consisted of a zinc-rich epoxy primer, high-build epoxy intermediate coats, and a topcoat of MIO polyurethane. These provided enhanced protection and durability to the structure, ensuring its longevity and aesthetic appeal.

Touch Projects ensured compliance with all safety regulations and environmental considerations. Coordinating with various stakeholders, including engineers, inspectors and authorities, we obtained all approvals prior to works that could disturb the hazardous paint systems. 

The project aimed not only to improve structural integrity and appearance, but also to help preserve this vital link from the city to the western suburbs. Touch Projects' expertise was instrumental in the project’s successful execution.