Rowland Scaffold Company

0114 275 5752

Molson Coors Brewery, Tadcaster, Recladding Works

Project Overview

Rowland Scaffold Ltd was engaged to provide specialist access solutions to facilitate the recladding of a live production facility at Molson Coors Brewery in Tadcaster. The project required careful planning and execution to maintain full brewery operations throughout, whilst providing safe and efficient access for cladding operatives to multiple elevations.

Project Challenges

Working on a fully operational live brewery introduced a range of logistical and technical challenges, including:

  • Asbestos AIB panels located behind existing cladding, which prevented any direct scaffold tie-ins to the building façade.
  • Restricted roof-level access on one elevation, which meant traditional scaffold erection from the floor was not possible.
  • The need to keep production areas below fully operational with minimal disruption to personnel and equipment.
  • Limited working space and strict health & safety protocols associated with a food & drink production environment. 

Access Solution

To overcome these constraints, Rowland Scaffold Ltd designed and delivered a bespoke scaffold scheme utilising a combination of advanced techniques and engineered solutions:

  • Drop-lift Scaffold from Roof Level
    On the restricted elevation, a drop-lift scaffold was erected from the main roof level. This approach was necessary because the roof directly below could not safely support the weight of a traditional scaffold structure, making a standard erection method unfeasible. By constructing the scaffold from the main roof and working downwards, we were able to provide safe and stable access for recladding works without relying on inadequate roof structures.
  • Spanning Internal Work Areas with Combi Beams
    Internally, 750 mm combo beams were installed to span across critical production zones, supporting the scaffold structure above while ensuring the working floor below remained fully operational. This approach provided uninterrupted access for brewery staff and machinery during the works.
  • Alternative Tie Methods
    Due to the presence of asbestos AIB panels, we implemented a non-invasive restraint system by erecting buttress support scaffolding in suitable areas, ensuring full structural stability without compromising the building fabric.
  • Load Class & Design Considerations
    The scaffold was designed to TG20:21 compliance, with specific Class 3 loading bays for materials handling and double guardrail protection throughout. Full design drawings and calculations were produced and approved prior to commencement to meet principal contractor and client requirements.

Health & Safety & Coordination

  • All works were carried out in strict accordance with site-specific RAMS, including asbestos awareness and live-site control measures.
  • Daily coordination with brewery management ensured clear communication and safe segregation between operational and construction activities.
  • Regular inspections and wind management procedures were implemented to maintain scaffold integrity throughout the project.

Outcome

The works were delivered on programme and without disruption to the brewery’s operations, demonstrating Rowland Scaffold Ltd’s ability to provide complex access solutions in sensitive, live environments. The project showcased our team’s technical expertise, adaptability, and commitment to safety and operational continuity.