Potemkin Steps - Odessa, Ukraine

Potemkin Steps in Odessa cleaned

In the summer of 2009, Kärcher undertook its first cleaning project in Ukraine. The dirt covering the Potemkin Steps in Odessa, which was very stubborn in places, was removed using high-pressure cleaners. It was predominantly emissions residues, pigeon droppings, trampled-down chewing gum (around 5,000 pieces!) and candle wax that had been deposited on the granite steps and asphalt-covered landings.

The cleaning team began at the top of the staircase and worked their way down step by step. Two hot water high-pressure cleaners (type HDS 13/20 Eco 4-S) were used, with flat jet nozzles at a temperature of 40° that are gentle on surfaces – and without chemicals. Surface cleaners FR 30 and FR 50 were connected to the machines to ensure an even clean on landings. In order to prevent dirty water from spreading over the steps, it was immediately vacuumed up using an NT 611 K wet and dry vacuum cleaner and continuously disposed of.

The 142-metre-long staircase with 192 steps connects the old town with the harbour. Its perspective structure makes it appear even longer: 21.7 metres wide at the bottom, narrowing to 13.4 metres at the top. The steps achieved worldwide fame thanks to the key scene in Sergei Eisenstein's classic 1925 film "Battleship Potemkin", to which they also owe their name.