Rijkswaterstaat and contractor SAEM (BAM Infra and SPIE) have implemented guidelines to prepare the Schellingwoude sluice complex for winter ice and slippage. The plan, part of the Basisonderhoudscontract Noorzeekanaal (BOC NZK), aims to prevent damage and ensure reliable operation of the Prins Willem-Alexanders sluice (PWA) and the Oranjesluizen. Monitoring of water and air temperature is carried out throughout the official frost period, from 1 October to 1 April. When temperatures fall below 3 °C, monitoring intensifies and daily reports are issued on ice conditions and actions taken. Heating coils (tracings) and pumps for the bubble lanes are inspected. A bell screen is installed on the PWA to reduce ice formation. If ice threatens ship shuttling, the ice‑fighting activity is suspended until shuttling resumes. Ground safety is addressed; slippage on walkways and platforms is treated with salt or sand. These measures keep the sluices operable and safe during unexpected winter conditions.
Source: Rijkswaterstaat
https://www.rijkswaterstaat.nl/nieuws/archief/2025/12/sluizencomplex-schellingwoude-voorbereid-op-ijs-en-gladheid
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