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News

Rust Bug!

Evidence of a "rust bug" has been identified at one location in Poole Harbour during routine inspections by the Borough of Poole’s Construction Related Services. The bacteria which eats oxidised metal, accelerating rates of corrosion, has been identified in other coastal authorities and is an internationally recognised phenomenon.

At a meeting of the Finance Sub Committee held on 18 November 1998, Councillors praised engineering staff for their early recognition of the presence of the "rust bug", which provided an opportunity for Officers and Members to approach Central Government and bodies responsible for sea defence to seek financial assistance.

Jim Bright, Head of Construction Related Services, said: "It has been recognised by the Institute of Civil Engineers that bio-corrosion is a problem of national significance. It is important that the Government fund research to identify what makes some structures vulnerable while others seem unaffected".

In addition to developing technical solutions for Local Authority owned structures, the Borough of Poole is offering support to others affected by the problem. Jim Bright stated: "There are dozens of steel structures in Poole Harbour which may be affected by this phenomenon. It will be the owners responsibility to address any problems but the Council would like to help by sharing the experience and understanding it has gained over recent months".

Anyone interested in further information, should contact the Borough of Poole’s Construction Related Services Helpdesk for a free leaflet on tel: (01202) 262144. For further technical information, please contact Tony Parfett, Technical Engineer on tel: (01202) 262164 or John Rice, Special Projects Manager on tel: (01202) 262111.

Tony Parfett, Technical Engineer, tel: (01202) 262164, John Rice, Special Projects Manager, tel: (01202) 262111