Cambridge, MA – Mast-climbing work platforms are extremely versatile pieces of equipment for many types of construction, and can be particularly suited for restoration and renovation projects. Often ideal for multi-trade uses, mast-climbers are powered by hydraulic technology and combine structural, mechanical and safety features that directly increase worker productivity. Efficient to operate, mast-climbers facilitate job completion, while considerably decreasing the risk of worker injury. Used as a complement to traditional scaffold or on its own, mast-climbers offer a scaffolding alternative that is suitable for certain projects. The restoration of the period brick facade at MIT’s W1 is a case in point.
Built in 1900 and operated as The Riverbank Court Hotel until it was purchased by MIT in 1937, the building was known as Ashdown House until 2008 and was home for MIT’s graduate student housing. Working for general contractor Shawmut Design and Construction, Marr Scaffolding Company used a hybrid approach of traditional scaffold and two types of Hydro Mobile mast-climbing units to allow for the renovation of the exterior façade and replacement of all the windows.
The scaffold design had to accommodate two unique features of the building’s 1900’s-era façade: 8-foot rounded step-ins and customized cornices. Marr’s ability to engineer a design that combined both traditional scaffold and mast-climbing work platforms met the conditions of the project and ultimately were deemed the best choice for the job. Traditional scaffold was utilized at the cornices while mast-climbers were utilized for the majority of the façade.
Marr Scaffolding carries three lines of Hydro Mobile Mast Climbers – M2 Units, P Units and F Units. The F Units, having the highest speed to capacity ratio, were selected as most versatile in meeting the needs of the project. Their speed of 20 feet per minute paired with a capacity of 9,000 lbs. per 50-foot-length of platform made them the ideal choice. At peak activity, 18 F Units were used as well as three P Units. Perfect for use in confined spaces, the P Units were needed to meet the conditions posed by limited access areas on the job. Drawing on the versatility of the company, Marr’s Shoring and Forming Division provided shoring for the mast climbers that were installed on lower roofs of the building. Marr Equipment Corporation provided cranes for the installation,relocation and dismantling of the mast climbers.
Prior to procuring the work, Marr submitted detailed engineered drawings to Shawmut Design and Construction that showed a safe, customized solution to gaining access to the 8-foot step-ins. The solution involved a modification of the use of the platform’s outriggers: Parallel outriggers extended from beneath the platform 8 feet to the edge of the façade. They were reinforced from underneath with cross-bracing. Together, the two levels of outriggers formed a base for scaffold grade planking, which was used to access the 8-foot step-ins. This customized method was reviewed and approved by the manufacturer, Hydro Mobile, before put in use. Additionally, Marr provided engineer approved layouts and performed routine but critical “pull-out” tests for the securing bolts to confirm a safe tie system.
Marr Scaffolding provided training to all users of the mast climbers and provided direction to Shawmut on safe use and maintenance procedures. Strict documentation on each unit was maintained at the job site. Prior to work commencing, Marr inspected and signed off on each unit. Marr’s concern for the safety of the user has led to the utilization of safety practices that surpass industry standards. The project started in May 2009 and reached completion on time in January 2010.
Marr’s creative problem-solving capabilities, strong safety culture, multi-disciplined approach, and firm emphasis on quality are key factors in meeting a customer’s expectations. Utilizing the skills of an experienced, professional staff, the company strives to continually employ an innovative approach to unique construction challenges.
