Working safely in Blijdorp Zoo

Hoisting and lifting equipment inspection and working at height training.

For over 50 years, Mennens has been visiting the most special places at Blijdorp Zoo. Like above the large water basin of the Oceanium, in the giraffe enclosure and at the technical department. Because when you work in, on or around animal enclosures, good preparation is essential.

The cooperation began some 50 years ago with the supply of products, such as chains and hoists. In the years that followed, Rotterdam Zoo contacted Mennens for more and more services. Steven Roskam, account manager at Mennens, explains, "For example, our inspectors inspect numerous lifting and hoisting devices and personal protective equipment (PPE) every year. They do this for the safety of the animals as well as the personnel. Here Mennens operates mainly on the inside of the enclosures."

Technology in the animal enclosures

In a zoo, lifting equipment is indispensable, Steven explains. "Like with the giraffes' feeding troughs. Hoists ensure that they can be hung at exactly the right height so that the animals can eat with their necks straight. And at the huge light fixture above the Oceanium, so visitors can get a good look at the sharks, fish and sea turtles. Mennens inspects everything. From hoists to hooks and from chains to PPE. The inspection is done according to EKH standards."

Good planning is essential

If you are going to work in an animal shelter, the animals have to be temporarily relocated. This requires good planning and coordination between both parties. Steven: "Blijdorp Zoo also has to take the weather into account. In winter, for example, it is too cold for some animals to go outside. Fortunately this cooperation has been going well for years. Blijdorp Zoo and Mennens coordinate well in advance when inspections are needed. Blijdorp Zoo also indicates when there are problems or a malfunction."

Inspecting in animal housing requires proper planning

‘Safe working at height' training courses 

The technical department at Blijdorp Zoo regularly works at height or on a roof. Steven: "To ensure this happens safely, Mennens regularly provides training courses, such as 'climbing and working at height' and 'rescue at height'. These trainings answer questions such as: what about the laws and regulations? How do you use PPE safely? How do you make sure your fall harness is secure? And what do you do if someone falls, gets stuck and needs to be rescued?"

Building further

Recently, Mennens received a new request from Blijdorp Zoo, says Steven. "We are going to provide the aviary of the macaws and ibises (two bird species) with a strong stainless steel cable net. The stainless steel net is braided, so we don't have to use mounting clips. This is because the birds can peck them out with their beaks."

Adoption serval

During the corona period, Blijdorp Zoo was (partially) closed for a long time. We then decided to become an adoption partner of Blijdorp by adopting the serval, a species of wild cats. This year we will continue to do so as well. With our adoption we contribute to Blijdorp’s recently launched new mission and vision. Steven concludes, "Thanks to this sponsorship, Mennens is giving Blijdorp Zoo a helping hand and we’re strengthening our existing, good mutual relationship."

Get in touch

Would you like to know more about the inspection of lifting and hoisting equipment? Or about our safe working at height training? Visit www.mennens.nl/en. Together, we'll ensure that your workplace, zoo, or amusement park is and remains a safe place.