Protecting the Eiffel Tower: Preservation Measures

Safeguarding an Icon

1. Structural Monitoring: Continuous sensor network (strain, vibration, tilt); annual visual inspections.
2. Corrosion Control: Full repaint every 7 years (60 tons of paint); lead-free, zinc-rich primers; 25 painters, 18 months.
3. Security: Perimeter screening, bag checks, CCTV, anti-drone systems, permanent police post.
4. Visitor Management: Timed tickets, capacity limits, one-way flows, no climbing/touching rules.
5. Lightning Protection: Four lightning rods + Faraday cage; strikes ~10/year harmlessly.
6. Fire Safety: Sprinklers in technical areas; fire-resistant coatings; brigade drills.
7. Restoration Campaigns: 2018–2021: glass floor on 1st level, elevator modernization, structural reinforcement, LED lighting.
8. Access Control: Staff-only zones; keycard access to machinery, archives.
9. Public Education: Exhibits on history/engineering; school programs; UNESCO World Heritage stewardship.
10. Climate Adaptation: Thermal expansion monitoring; flood planning for Seine crests.

Managed by SETE (Société d'Exploitation de la Tour Eiffel) under City of Paris oversight.