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The men of the bridge. Painting the Forth Bridge is a long and complex task
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The men of the bridge. Painting the Forth Bridge is a long and complex task
The men of the bridge. Painting the Forth Bridge is a long and complex task, taking three years to complete. It requires 50 tons of paint each year and a squad of 24 men working permanently. Each painter must have a complete disregard for height and the agility of a cat. Working 300 feet above the Forth calls for no ordinary tradesmen. The lower girders of the structure, lashed continually by salt spray, are painted with a black mixture, mainly composed of pitch. This was the idea of Foreman Paton and it counteracts the quick corrosive actions of the salt. 12th September 1949
Staff
Daily Record
Mirrorpix
Scotland
Media ID 21818225
© Mirrorpix
1949 Fixing Jobs Maintenance Men Only Paint Painting Rail Scotland Tracks
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EDITORS COMMENTS
The Men of the Bridge: Capturing the Grit and Skill Behind a Monumental Task In this photo print, we are transported back to September 12th, 1949, where an extraordinary feat of human determination unfolds. The Forth Bridge stands tall and majestic in the background, while a squad of 24 men fearlessly tackle the daunting task of painting it. This is no ordinary job; it is a three-year-long endeavor that demands unwavering courage and agility. To combat the corrosive effects of salt spray on the lower girders, Foreman Paton devised a brilliant solution - a black pitch-based mixture. As each painter meticulously applies layer after layer, they safeguard this iconic structure for future generations to admire. The sheer scale of this undertaking becomes apparent as we contemplate the staggering amount of paint required - an astounding 50 tons per year! These brave tradesmen work tirelessly at dizzying heights of 300 feet above the mighty Forth River. Their commitment to excellence is evident in every brushstroke. This image transports us back to an era when jobs were physically demanding but carried out with pride and dedication. It serves as a testament to human resilience and ingenuity in overcoming challenges posed by nature itself. As we gaze upon these unsung heroes suspended high above Scotland's picturesque landscape, let us remember their invaluable contribution in preserving our architectural heritage.
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