Project Overview
Legend Hire, engaged to deliver a temporary propping solution for the RFRB Finlayson project in Narrabeen, addressing structural instability caused by concrete cancer in existing columns.
The new MP 350 props deployed to secure the affected areas and maintain building stability during rectification works. The system designed to work seamlessly around existing compromised columns while enabling contractors to carry out remedial works safely and efficiently.
The Challenge
Several core structure columns in the building had been badly damaged by concrete cancer, weakening their ability to carry weight. This made parts of the structure unstable and any ongoing or planned work risky. The customer needed a strong, engineered temporary support and propping system to safely hold up the weakened columns. This allowed repair work to be done without putting workers at risk, interrupting operations, or compromising the building’s safety.
The Solution
Design
- Propping layout engineered by Legend Hire’s in-house team to suit the building geometry and column positions.
- Consideration of deteriorated concrete strength and reduced capacity of existing structural members.
- Full compliance with Australian Standards, including AS 3610, AS 4100, and AS/NZS 1170 series.
Supply
- MP 350 Props supplied as the primary vertical supports, selected for their high load capacity, compact footprint, and adaptability around tight column arrangements.
- Timber spreader pads supplied to protect slab surfaces and distribute loads evenly.
- All components fully tested, certified, and tagged before dispatch.
Installation
- Installation carried out by Legend Hire’s specialist Install team.
- Propping erected around existing concrete-damaged columns with minimal disruption to ongoing site activities.
- Strict adherence to project-specific Safe Work Method Statements (SWMS).
Inspection & Handover
- Final inspection undertaken by Legend Hire’s supervisor alongside the structural engineer.
- Handover package included compliance records, installation certificates, and as-built layout drawings.
Engineering Considerations
Load Calculations
- Detailed assessment of weakened column load paths due to concrete cancer.
- Evaluation of redistributed loads onto MP 350 props during staged demolition and repair.
- Optimised configuration to reduce interference with remedial contractor operations.
Safety Measures
- All equipment tagged with capacity ratings and load test certification.
- Exclusion zones enforced during installation, adjustment, and removal phases.
- Continuous monitoring of props and beams during critical stages of column removal and repair.
The Outcome
The RFRB Finlayson Narrabeen project was successfully delivered with:
- Zero incidents or safety breaches.
- Full stabilisation of the structure during concrete cancer remediation.
- On-time completion, enabling rectification works to proceed without delays.
Legend Hire showcased its ability to deliver innovative engineered propping solutions, introducing the MP 350 props into complex structural remediation environments. This project highlights our growing capability to manage specialised propping around compromised structural members, ensuring both safety and efficiency under one coordinated package.
Facing structural challenges on your site? Get expert support from Legend Hire now.