Project Overview
The construction of Tottenham Hotspur Football Club’s new stadium presented numerous engineering challenges, particularly in the erection and subsequent removal of temporary structural supports. Think Access was engaged by the main on-site steel erection contractor to undertake the critical task of removing massive temporary stay jacks from the stadium’s roof structure. These stay jacks had been essential during the roof’s construction, providing stability and support as the permanent structures were assembled. Once the roof was self-supporting, the removal of these temporary elements required meticulous planning and execution to ensure safety and structural integrity.
Scope of Work
The primary objective was the safe and efficient removal of the temporary stay jacks located at high elevations on the stadium’s roof. This process involved
- Accessing the high-level roof areas where the stay jacks were installed.
- Dismantling the stay jacks without compromising the structural integrity of the roof.
- Coordinating with crane operators to lower the dismantled components to ground level.
- Ensuring all activities were conducted with minimal disruption to ongoing construction activities and in compliance with safety regulations
Challenges Faced
Several challenges were inherent in this project:
- Height and Accessibility: The stay jacks were positioned at significant heights, making traditional access methods impractical.
- Structural Sensitivity: The removal process had to ensure that the roof’s structural integrity remained uncompromised.
- Coordination: Precise coordination was required between the rope access technicians and crane operators to safely lower the dismantled components.
- Safety: Working at height always presents safety risks, necessitating stringent adherence to safety protocols.
Execution Strategy
Think Access employed a team of skilled rope access technicians, trained in both IRATA (Industrial Rope Access Trade Association) standards and NVQ (National Vocational Qualification) Level 2 and 3 in Steel Erecting. This combination of qualifications ensured that the team had the necessary skills to perform complex tasks at height safely and efficiently
The removal process began with a thorough assessment of each stay jack’s position and its role in the overall structural framework. Technicians then devised a step-by-step dismantling plan, ensuring that each component could be safely removed without affecting the roof’s stability.
Rope access techniques allowed technicians to reach the stay jacks without the need for extensive scaffolding, reducing both time and cost. Once dismantled, components were securely rigged and coordinated with crane operators to be lowered to the ground.
Outcomes and Reflections
The project was completed successfully, with all temporary stay jacks removed safely and efficiently. The use of rope access techniques proved invaluable, offering a flexible and cost-effective solution to a complex problem. The collaboration between Think Access, the main steel erection contractor, and crane operators exemplified effective project coordination.
This case study highlights the importance of skilled personnel, meticulous planning, and innovative access solutions in modern construction projects. Think Access’s role in the THFC stadium project underscores their capability to handle complex tasks in challenging environments, reinforcing their reputation as leaders in rope access and steel erection services.
If you have a project and would like to see how rope access can help…