Sure it didn’t actually open for another three months, but joining the sides of such a colossal undertaking was an incredible accomplishment. The bridge still holds the records for being the world’s tallest steel arch bridge and the widest long-span bridge.
Today, thousands of steel rivets rest on the harbour floor beneath the bridge; workers dropped them constantly during construction.
I was shocked to learn that there were no safety procedures for laborers – no harnesses, no hard-hats, nada.
Whaaa? Given that, its miraculous that only 16 of the 1,400 workers died in the course of constructing the bridge.
Especially when you consider how windy it is at the top!
Doing the Harbour Bridge Climb today, all you have to focus on is putting one foot in front of the other and not falling over – I couldn’t imagine actually having to focus on building something at the same time.
But, the workers were lucky to have the best view of Sydney on a daily basis (though I image their attention was directed more at not plummeting to their death than soaking in the scenery).
Nowadays, To even set foot on the bridge arch requires an hour-long orientation and safety briefing.
That includes learning how to use the harness and tether, getting all fancy in a grey and blue jumpsuit and climbing around on a mock section of bridge before being guided to top.
But my hats off to everyone who toiled, labored, planned and made the bridge possible because its an icon for Sydney, a beautiful structure and a view to envy.
*For more Photo Friday, Delicious Baby’s the spot!
I always marvel at feats such as those too. The Golden Gate Bridge laborers worked without safety harnesses too – never ceases to amaze me.
What a cool experience! I love the shot with the Opera House in the background!
Beautiful pictures. These structures are amazing and the history behind the workers are even more incredible. We spent part of our honeymoon in Sydney. Instead, we chose to ride the ferry under it. We though of doing the Harbour Bridge Climb but it looked too scary. Looks like a great adventure.
Sonja – The workers not having harnesses just baffles my mind! So dangerous.
Lisa – The view of the Opera House was unreal. Unfortunately, you’re not allowed to take cameras on the climb…I tried and they caught me 🙁
Mary – I didn’t have a chance to do the ferry under the bridge, but I bet it was great for a bit of a different perspective!