How Do They Do It? Season 14 Episode 4 Petronas Window Cleaners

Petronas Tower 1 and 2 are the iconic skyscrapers that define the skyline of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Boasting a height of 1,483 feet, the towers are the tallest twin towers in the world. But keeping these tall buildings clean is a formidable task, and that's where the Petronas Window Cleaners come into play.

In this episode of How They Do It, viewers get an insider's look at the day-to-day operations of the window cleaning crew responsible for maintaining the sparkling facade of the Petronas Towers. The job of a window cleaner at the Petronas Towers is not for the faint of heart, as they are required to work at heights of up to 1,200 feet in all types of weather conditions.

The episode starts with an introduction to the team of experienced window cleaners who have been performing this job for years. We see them preparing for the workday, from putting on their protective gear to testing their equipment and loading it onto the platform. We learn about the safety measures that are in place, including the use of harnesses and a backup safety line. The crew's supervisor explains how they are trained to detect and deal with potential hazards such as sudden changes in wind speed.

With their safety checks complete, the team sets up the platform that will take them to the top of the towers. It's a complicated process, and as they start their ascent, we learn about the technology and machinery used to keep the platform stable in high winds. We also see how the team communicates with each other and the ground crew via a two-way radio system.

Once they reach the top, the window cleaners start their work. Using squeegees and soapy water, they meticulously clean each window pane, working their way down the building. We see close-up shots of the crew members at work and gain insight into the techniques they use to remove even the smallest streaks and smudges. We also learn about the specific cleaning solutions that are used to prevent the top-of-the-line glass from getting damaged.

The episode adds an element of excitement by showing the window cleaners performing stunts for the crowd below. The team demonstrates acrobatic moves while suspended on the platform, much to the delight of the cheering onlookers. It's a nice break from the intense concentration it takes to complete the complex cleaning process and shows the team's human side.

Throughout the episode, we hear from the window cleaners themselves as they talk about their experiences on the job. They discuss what drew them to this unique profession and what they enjoy most about it. One of the cleaners describes the breathtaking views he gets to see daily and how it never gets old no matter how many times he does it. We also hear about the challenges they face, from battling the elements to maneuvering the platform precisely to the correct spot.

Finally, as the day comes to a close, we see the window cleaners preparing to lower themselves back down to the ground. The process involves carefully winding up the cables and taking down the platform, all while maintaining safety measures. They take a moment to appreciate the view from the top one last time before making their descent.

In conclusion, How They Do It does an excellent job showcasing the dedicated and skilled work of the Petronas Window Cleaners. Viewers get an up-close look at the process and technology behind cleaning the Petronas Towers, along with the physical and personal challenges the cleaners face every day. It is an informative and exciting episode that leaves the viewers in awe of the precision and bravery of these skilled workers.