Louisiana State Capitol – Custom Scaffold and Rigging Access in Baton Rouge, LA
Project Details
- Louisiana State Capitol
- Baton Rouge, LA
- Custom Scaffolding, Engineering Services, Personnel and Material Hoisting, Integrated Access, Netting Enclosure Systems, Trolley Hoisting Systems, Overhead Canopy Protection, Project Management, and Maintenance Crews
- Phased Installation for Complex Restoration
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Project Narrative
The Louisiana State Capitol restoration required a highly specialized access and rigging system capable of supporting exterior tower work without placing loads on the surrounding lower roofs.
The Scaffold Resource team designed a custom scaffold and rigging system that is being installed from an independent structural steel support framework. The multifunctional system incorporates tower access, material hoists, rigging capabilities, a partial precipitation shield, and debris containment.
The result is a purpose-built access solution designed around the Capitol’s structural conditions and the sequencing requirements of the restoration work.
Project Scope
Scaffold Resource’s work includes:
- Independent structural steel scaffold support framework
- Tower access and rigging scaffold system
- Four material-only hoists
- Cantilevered hoist support structures
- A dual car personnel and material hoist
- Multiple overhead protection areas.
- Phased installation coordinated with restoration activities
Independent Structural Support
This restoration project is being performed on a functioning state capitol building. Portions of the structure below the tower are active on a daily basis. For this reason, loads imposed by the scaffold/rigging system could not be transferred to or through the roof structures below the tower.
To address this condition, Scaffold Resource installed a structural steel scaffold support framework that does not engage the low roof in any way. Portions of the steel I beams used to build this steel support framework were positioned by crane. This independent framework supports the vertical loading of the access and rigging scaffold system, as well as the tower restoration work itself, as it progresses up the tower.
This approach provides the necessary foundation for the system while allowing the state house to function normally.
Tower Access, Rigging, and Material Handling
The scaffold and rigging system is being installed vertically in phases, allowing completed sections to support restoration work while installation continues above.
Four material-only hoists facilitate the movement of scaffold components, equipment, and restoration related materials. Each hoist is supported by an independent cantilevered structure designed for the conditions at its specific location.
This combination of scaffold access, rigging capabilities, and material handling enables efficient movement throughout the active work areas.
Overhead Protection and Weather Management
One OHP area of note is on the north elevation of the building. This particular OHP system is installed over the drive lane and entrance used by the Governor on a daily basis. For this reason, the configuration of this OHP has been designed to allow vehicles to travel through and be parked within the OHP structure. In addition, a rubberized roof membrane has been applied to the roof deck of this OHP structure. This membrane limits roof leaks and prolongs the life of the OHP roof deck material. For rainwater management, gutters and down spouts have also been installed as part of this OHP roof structure..
A movable white mesh scrim encloses active sections of the tower scaffold. Supported by a vertical track system, the scrim helps:
- Contain debris generated during stone restoration
- Provide partial shade for active work areas
- Maintain airflow around the scaffold
- Reduce weather-related interruptions
The scrim can be repositioned vertically as restoration activities move to new sections of the tower.
Custom Access for Complex Restoration Work
The Louisiana State Capitol project demonstrates Scaffold Resource’s ability to coordinate structural steel, scaffolding, rigging, hoisting, overhead protection, fabrication, and environmental controls as part of one integrated access plan.
By designing the system around structural limitations and phased project sequencing, Scaffold Resource is providing a versatile scaffold system capable of supporting the restoration work from installation through completion.
Planning a Complex Access Project?
Scaffold Resource provides custom scaffolding, hoisting, rigging, overhead protection, shoring, and temporary roof enclosures for complex restoration, commercial, industrial, and government projects.
Contact Scaffold Resource to discuss the access, temporary structural support challenges, and sequencing requirements for your next project.
