Specialist in underwater solutions

As a specialist in pioneering underwater solutions, DISA International does not shy away from any challenge. In recent years, for example, the globally operating company has made a major contribution to the construction of the OpenIJ sea lock in IJmuiden, the largest sea lock in the world. An interview with Managing Director Didier De Graaff about this extensive project and the international expansion of the DISA brand.

"Since 2003, our international customer base has relied on our inventive and comprehensive marine and underwater solutions," begins De Graaff. "We stand for operational excellence, safety and transparency to provide the highest quality to our customers. At DISA, we really enjoy transferring proven concepts, techniques and specialized personnel from one division to solve various operational challenges in another process. This efficient, economical and sustainable approach to subsea projects is what sets us apart and gives us a competitive advantage."

Tough conditions

Diversification and international expansion have allowed DISA to develop and deepen. "We now operate globally with four different divisions, offshore oil and gas; civil construction; offshore renewables - enabled by C-Ventus and finally we specialize in wreck removal. We have a close and professional cooperation with our customers. They understand the tough conditions in which we work, but also know that they can rely on us for a reliable and successful result, where safety is never compromised. Safety always comes first and our strong safety record reflects this. Through an integrated quality system, supported by an international certification and safety policy for all our employees, this is constantly monitored."

Exceeding expectations

Within DISA, the civil construction division specializes in underwater services for the construction, repair and maintenance of a wide range of infrastructure projects. "Over the years, we have built a reputation as a leading underwater contractor, making a substantial contribution to the construction of tunnels, aqueducts, port extensions, bridges and locks, among others. To make all this possible, we realize between 90,000 m3 and 120,000 m3 of underwater concrete floors every year. Effective planning and logistics allow us to deploy our teams anywhere in the world and offer our services at very short notice. Our know-how and experience in civil construction have proven to be key factors in meeting and exceeding our customers' expectations." 

OpenIJ

A great example of a project in which DISA's pioneering underwater solutions and expertise have added great value is the construction of sea lock OpenIJ in IJmuiden. "On July 12, 2021, we reached our final milestone after a five-year period, completing all underwater work required for the construction of this extensive infrastructure project. In total, we spent 95,190 working hours and 22,550 diving hours on this project with 187 DISA appointees ranging from dive supervisors, divers, foremen and project managers. As DISA, we are justifiably proud to have been a part of this amazing and globally unique project."