The property’s façade includes large glazed panels, recessed window sections and horizontal architectural fins. This requires a carefully planned approach to access, cleaning and safety management.
Using BMU cradle access, our team works efficiently across the building’s elevations, delivering a consistent finish while maintaining the safety and presentation standards that building owners, occupiers and visitors expect of a prominent central London commercial property.
Delivering Safe, Efficient Access at Height
100 Fetter Lane is a modern commercial building in central London with a contemporary façade that combines glazing, recessed sections and architectural detailing. This varied design creates specific access and cleaning requirements, particularly where traditional methods may not provide suitable access.
To support consistent façade maintenance, DOC Cleaning used the building’s integrated Building Maintenance Unit cradle system. BMU access provides a stable, controlled platform that allows operatives to work vertically across the height and width of the building, ensuring full coverage of glazing and external surfaces while maintaining a strong focus on safety, quality and operational efficiency.
As with DOC Cleaning’s wider case study approach, the emphasis was on careful planning, transparent communication and tailored service delivery within a live commercial environment, reflecting the style and focus seen in DOC Cleaning’s Moor House and National Theatre case studies.
About 100 Fetter Lane
100 Fetter Lane is a prominent commercial building in central London with a distinctive modern façade.
The building combines glazing, recessed window areas and architectural detailing. These features create specific cleaning and access requirements, especially where standard external cleaning methods may be limited.
The surrounding environment also requires careful coordination. With pedestrians, neighbouring buildings and public areas nearby, DOC Cleaning plans the works around safety, access control and day-to-day site activity.
Delivering safe and efficient BMU access
DOC Cleaning uses the building’s integrated BMU cradle window cleaning system to access the façade safely and efficiently.
BMU cradle systems provide a stable, controlled platform for working at height.
They allow trained operatives to move vertically across the building and position themselves accurately along each elevation.
This access method is well suited to 100 Fetter Lane because it enables the team to:
- Reach glazing and façade elements across the full height of the building
- Clean recessed sections and architectural detailing more effectively
- Maintain a stable working platform throughout the programme
- Reduce disruption to occupants and the surrounding environment
- Support a controlled, planned approach to façade maintenance
DOC Cleaning coordinates all works with site management, including how the team positions and moves the cradle around the building.
Access Strategy and Equipment
Access to the façade is achieved using the building’s integrated BMU cradle window cleaning system. The team positions the stable working platform precisely along each elevation, allowing operatives to reach glazing and façade elements safely and efficiently.
The BMU cradle system allows operatives to work across the façade in a structured and controlled way.
Within the cradle, the team uses professional window cleaning equipment to achieve a clear and consistent finish. This includes:
- Applicators for applying cleaning solution
- Microfibre sleeves for lifting dirt and environmental residue
- Professional squeegees for a streak-free finish
- Pure water systems where appropriate to reduce spotting on glass surfaces
Certified harnesses and safety attachments secure operatives throughout the works. This supports compliance with working-at-height requirements while allowing the flexibility needed to clean the building’s varied façade features.
Cleaning Methodology
The cleaning process follows a systematic top-to-bottom approach. This helps prevent cross-contamination from upper levels and supports consistent results across each elevation.
The process includes:
| Stage | Activity |
|---|---|
| 1. Surface preparation | Operatives apply cleaning solution to loosen dust, dirt and atmospheric pollutants |
| 2. Agitation | Glass, edges, and corners cleaned using microfibre sleeves to work the solution |
| 3. Glass finishing | A clear streak-free results achieved with professional squeegees |
| 4. Detailing | Window edges, frames and seals are checked for a uniform finish |
| 5. Quality checks | The team carries out visual inspections throughout the programme |
The recessed glazing and horizontal fins require additional care. Operatives adjust their techniques to reach deeper sections and clean around architectural features without leaving residue, streaks or water marks.
Safety and Compliance
Safety is central to every stage of the project. Working at height using BMU systems requires robust controls, competent operatives and clear communication between site teams.
Before works begin, the BMU cradle and associated safety systems are subject to pre-use inspections to confirm they meet operational and regulatory requirements. Site-specific risk assessments and method statements support the safe delivery of the programme.
Ground-level areas are carefully managed using appropriate signage and exclusion zones to protect pedestrians, occupants and visitors. Clear communication between operatives and site contacts ensure that operatives carry out cradle movements and lifting operations.
Our operatives are trained in specialist access and working-at-height procedures, with ongoing supervision, toolbox talks and on-site briefings used to reinforce safe systems of work.
DOC Cleaning’s IRATA probationary membership further reflects the company’s commitment to recognised industry standards and the continued development of specialist access capabilities.
The Outcome
The works at 100 Fetter Lane deliver a clear improvement in the appearance and presentation of the building’s façade.
Using the BMU cradle window cleaning system allows DOC Cleaning to access complex architectural features efficiently and safely. The structured cleaning methodology helps ensure that the team maintains glazing, recessed sections, frames and visible façade elements to a high standard.
The project demonstrates DOC Cleaning’s ability to deliver specialist façade maintenance in live commercial environments, supporting long-term asset care and consistent presentation standards.
Partner with DOC Cleaning for high-rise window cleaning services
We provide specialist high-rise window cleaning services for commercial buildings, corporate headquarters, mixed-use developments and landmark properties across the UK.
Our teams are experienced in:
We work closely with facilities managers, property managers and landlords to deliver safe, efficient and carefully planned cleaning programmes tailored to each building.
Find out more
As a family-owned business with over 50 years of experience delivering professional cleaning services and a portfolio spanning cultural landmarks, corporate headquarters and commercial spaces across the UK, we are here to help.
See here our full case study: 100 Fetter Lane BMU Cradle Window Cleaning
To learn more about our partnerships, check out further case studies.
We work with clients to review existing arrangements and identify practical, scalable improvements that deliver long term value. Contact us today to start the conversation.