Recently IDH kicked off their Scaffold Site Investigation services with Smart Scaffolding of Essex at a windy and exposed Tomline House in Felixstowe Docks. The project called for a façade scaffold for window repairs and other general maintenance works in a live occupied Port Authority building.

Due to the arrangement and layout of the building, 3 elevations of the façade were over a flat non-load bearing roof structure which could not be back-propped or penetrated. In conjunction with Smart Scaffolding, IDH developed a 'Gallows Bracket' scaffold design solution picking up the column lines behind the façade and bridging between them. From this springing point the full height facades could progress without imposing load upon the flat roof.

Gallows bracket solutions by their very nature exert large push / pull forces on the façade and are entirely dependent on the integrity of the anchor and façade to transfer these forces. With foresight and good planning IDH were given the opportunity to undertake on site anchor preliminary testing as described in TG04. The aim of this testing was to determine the actual competence of the building fabric before progressing the design. Again, by knowing exactly what anchor and tie were the preferred components to be used, IDH were able to site test and ascertain safe working loads for the Gallows Bracket approach. Armed with this information we were then able to rationalise the design back in the comfort of the office to known parameters having the confidence we were not exposing the anchors, building fabric, erectors or users to any unreasonable risks.


Needless to say, Smart Scaffolding completed the façade in accordance with the scaffold design drawings and demonstrated a level of professionalism and competence in this approach the Port Authority were un-accustomed to which has subsequently resulted in additional contracts at the Port.

IDH recognise the role of designer can enhance the project delivery and professional reputation of the Scaffolding Contractor by going one step further than is traditional. By applying our Site Experience, Engineering skills and Professional approach we give Main Contractors and Clients the confidence the Scaffold Contractors they have engaged are serious and dedicated in their delivery of the project. To demonstrate our commitment to this new area of Scaffold Design we have invested heavily in traditional test rigs, bespoke rigs for unusual circumstances and staff training to ensure we deliver where that design edge could be the difference between you and the next contractor.

www.idh-design.co.uk