 
 
CASE STUDY: High-Altitude Telecommunications Mast Dismantling
IDI Services Delivers Tandem Crane Operations for Lawrie Demolition on Mormond Hill
Client Profile
Lawrie Demolition, a leading specialist in industrial and infrastructure dismantling across Scotland, required the controlled dismantling of a 30-year-old telecommunications mast on Mormond Hill in Strichen, Aberdeenshire. As experts in complex demolition projects, Lawrie Demolition needed a lifting partner with tandem crane capabilities, experienced personnel, and the technical expertise to safely dismantle a substantial lattice tower structure in an exposed hilltop location—all whilst managing the unique challenges of working at significant elevation in a remote rural environment where weather conditions and access constraints demanded specialized planning and execution.
The Challenge
The Mormond Hill telecommunications mast dismantling presented multiple complex challenges that demanded IDI Services’ specialized tandem lifting expertise:
Site Location and Access Constraints
- Mormond Hill summit location at significant elevation above sea level creating access and logistical challenges.
- Remote hilltop site requiring transport of two large mobile cranes and support equipment up narrow rural access roads.
- Exposed elevated position with spectacular views across Aberdeenshire also meaning exposure to strong winds and weather systems.
- Limited working area on hilltop plateau restricting crane positioning options and equipment staging.
- Ground conditions on exposed hillside requiring assessment and preparation for crane outrigger deployment.
- Distance from IDI Services’ base and major transport routes necessitating comprehensive planning and mobilization logistics.
Telecommunications Mast Specifications
- 30-year-old lattice steel tower structure requiring sequential dismantling from top to bottom.
- Substantial height demanding appropriate crane reach and lifting capacity at significant radius.
- Heavy steel lattice sections weighing several tonnes requiring controlled lifting and load management.
- Multiple telecommunications equipment installations including dishes, antennas, and mounting brackets requiring removal.
- Structural integrity considerations as mast sections were disconnected and removed sequentially.
- Historic tower potentially featuring bolted connections requiring assessment and disconnection procedures.
Tandem Lifting Requirements
- Mast sections requiring two cranes working in perfect coordination due to weight distribution and structural configuration.
- Simultaneous lifting operations demanding precise communication and synchronized movements between crane operators.
- Load sharing calculations ensuring each crane handled appropriate weight distribution throughout lifts.
- Coordinated positioning of both cranes to achieve optimal geometry for lifting tall lattice sections.
- Sequential lifts requiring both cranes to reposition as dismantling progressed down the tower height.
- Safety-critical operations where coordination failure could result in load imbalance or structural issues.
Environmental and Operational Factors
- Exposed hilltop location subject to high winds requiring weather monitoring and operational wind speed limits.
- Variable weather conditions typical of elevated Scottish locations affecting visibility, crane stability, and personnel safety.
- Remote location limiting emergency response access and requiring comprehensive on-site safety provisions.
- Coordination with telecommunications operators regarding service continuity and equipment decommissioning.
- Environmental considerations for an elevated rural site with potential ecological sensitivities.
- Public safety management ensuring hilltop area secured during demolition operations.
The Solution
IDI Services designed a comprehensive tandem crane dismantling solution leveraging our 45+ years of industry experience:
Phase 1: Site Assessment and Tandem Lift Planning
Our team conducted extensive planning recognizing the unique challenges of elevated tandem operations:
- Detailed site survey of Mormond Hill summit documenting ground conditions, access routes, working areas, and crane positioning options.
- Engineering assessment of the telecommunications mast structure, including height, section weights, connection types, and structural configuration.
- Tandem lift calculations determining load distribution, crane positioning geometry, and rigging requirements for each dismantling phase.
- Access route survey identifying potential obstacles, road weight restrictions, and turning limitations for crane transport to hilltop.
- Weather pattern research for Mormond Hill area establishing historical wind data and optimal operational windows.
- Development of comprehensive method statements and risk assessments specific to elevated tandem lifting and telecommunications structure dismantling.
- Coordination with Lawrie Demolition’s project team regarding dismantling sequences, structural disconnection procedures, and timeline requirements.
- Emergency response planning addressing the remote elevated location and limited access for support services.
Phase 2: Mobilisation to Remote Elevated Location
The project commenced with complex logistics transporting equipment to the hilltop site:
Crane Transport:
- Mobilisation of two large mobile cranes—one orange/white unit and one with distinctive orange livery—to Mormond Hill summit.
- Navigation of narrow rural access roads with loaded crane carriers requiring route clearance and potential traffic management.
- Coordination of crane arrivals ensuring both units available for tandem operations without scheduling conflicts.
- Transport of rigging equipment, ground protection materials, and support equipment up challenging access route.
Site Establishment:
- Assessment of ground conditions on exposed hilltop for crane outrigger positioning.
- Installation of crane mats and load-spreading equipment ensuring stable foundations for heavy lifting operations.
- Strategic positioning of both cranes achieving optimal geometry for tandem lifts whilst accommodating hilltop space constraints.
- Establishment of exclusion zones and safety barriers securing the elevated working area.
- Setup of communication systems ensuring clear coordination between both crane operators, lift supervisors, and ground personnel.
Phase 3: Sequential Mast Dismantling—Tandem Crane Operations
The critical dismantling phase required precise coordination between both crane operations:
Upper Mast Section Removal:
- Coordinated positioning of both cranes’ booms reaching the upper sections of the 30-year-old lattice tower.
- Installation of rigging equipment on telecommunications equipment and antenna assemblies requiring removal.
- Tandem lifting of dishes, mounting brackets, and ancillary equipment using synchronized crane movements.
- Controlled lowering of telecommunications equipment to ground level for processing by Lawrie Demolition’s team.
- Systematic removal of all equipment installations preparing mast structure for lattice section dismantling.
Lattice Tower Section Dismantling:
- Sequential disconnection of lattice tower sections working from top to bottom.
- Rigging of heavy steel sections with dual lifting points enabling load sharing between both cranes.
- Synchronized lifting operations with both crane operators working in perfect coordination guided by lift supervisor.
- Controlled rotation and positioning of lattice sections as they were disconnected from remaining tower structure.
- Precision lowering managing long, irregular lattice sections through confined working area without ground impact damage.
- Continuous load monitoring ensuring safe weight distribution between both cranes throughout all tandem lifts.
Progressive Dismantling Sequence:
- Repositioning of both cranes as dismantling progressed down tower height maintaining optimal lifting geometry.
- Multiple tandem lifts removing successive lattice sections systematically reducing mast height.
- Coordination with Lawrie Demolition’s structural team regarding connection access and sequential disconnection procedures.
- Real-time communication between all personnel ensuring synchronized movements and maintaining operational safety.
- Ground personnel managing rigging changes and load preparation whilst cranes repositioned for next lifts.
Phase 4: Weather Management and Operational Adaptations
The exposed hilltop location demanded continuous environmental monitoring:
Wind Monitoring:
- Real-time wind speed monitoring using anemometer equipment positioned on exposed hilltop.
- Operational wind speed limits established ensuring crane stability and safe lifting conditions.
- Weather forecast consultation planning operational windows and identifying potential suspension periods.
- Flexible scheduling adapting to favourable weather conditions whilst maintaining project progress.
Visibility and Safety:
- Operations conducted during optimal visibility conditions given elevated location and coordination requirements.
- Continuous assessment of changing weather conditions typical of exposed Scottish hilltop environments.
- Communication protocols ensuring immediate response to deteriorating conditions or approaching weather systems.
Phase 5: Final Sections and Site Completion
The concluding phase completed mast removal and site restoration:
Lower Structure Removal:
- Final tandem lifts removing lower lattice sections and base mounting structures.
- Complete dismantling of 30-year-old telecommunications mast returning hilltop to cleared condition.
- Load transfer of all dismantled materials to ground level for Lawrie Demolition’s processing and disposal.
- Verification that all mast components successfully removed meeting project completion requirements.
Demobilisation:
- Systematic removal of rigging equipment, ground protection systems, and safety installations.
- Controlled egress of both mobile cranes from hilltop location navigating access route with appropriate escort.
- Site restoration ensuring minimal environmental impact to elevated rural location.
- Final coordination meeting with Lawrie Demolition confirming successful project completion.
The Results
The Lawrie Demolition project on Mormond Hill was completed with exemplary outcomes demonstrating tandem crane excellence:
Safety Performance
- Zero safety incidents throughout all tandem lifting operations in exposed elevated environment.
- Full compliance with working at height regulations, tandem lift requirements, and telecommunications site safety protocols.
- Exemplary weather management suspending operations during unsuitable conditions and maintaining safety standards.
- Professional coordination between both crane operators preventing load imbalance or control issues throughout complex tandem operations.
- Comprehensive risk management addressing remote location, elevation, exposure, and coordination challenges.
Operational Excellence
- Successful tandem crane operations achieving synchronized lifting of heavy lattice sections throughout dismantling sequence.
- Complete mast removal dismantling 30-year-old telecommunications structure from elevated hilltop location.
- On-time completion meeting Lawrie Demolition’s project schedule despite weather-dependent operations.
- Zero structural incidents maintaining controlled conditions throughout sequential tower dismantling.
- Efficient coordination between two cranes, lift supervisors, rigging team, and Lawrie Demolition personnel.
Technical Achievement
- Precision tandem lifting managing load distribution and synchronized movements for irregular lattice sections.
- Optimal crane positioning achieving appropriate geometry despite hilltop space constraints.
- Successful adaptation to exposed elevated environment with continuous weather monitoring and operational flexibility.
- Complex logistics execution mobilizing and operating two large cranes in remote hilltop location.
- Sequential dismantling control systematically reducing mast height whilst maintaining structural stability.
Client Satisfaction
- Seamless partnership with Lawrie Demolition throughout planning, execution, and completion phases.
- Reliable performance delivering specialized tandem crane capabilities meeting demolition sector requirements.
- Professional execution maintaining safety and quality standards throughout challenging elevated operations.
- Flexible coordination accommodating weather-dependent scheduling and adapting to site-specific challenges.
Client Testimonial
“IDI Services demonstrated exceptional tandem crane capabilities on our Mormond Hill telecommunications mast dismantling project. The exposed hilltop location and substantial mast structure demanded two cranes working in perfect coordination—a technically complex operation that their experienced team executed flawlessly. Their weather management, synchronized lifting operations, and professional approach to this challenging elevated site ensured the project’s success. IDI Services’ expertise in tandem operations makes them our preferred partner for complex demolition projects requiring specialized lifting capabilities.”
— Project Manager, Lawrie Demolition
The IDI Advantage: Tandem Crane Expertise
This project exemplifies IDI Services’ core strengths in coordinated multi-crane operations and demolition sector support:
Tandem Crane Specialization
When Single Cranes Are Insufficient: Some structures and components exceed single crane capacity or require load distribution that only tandem lifting can provide. IDI Services brings proven expertise:
- Synchronized operations with two cranes working in perfect coordination under unified lift supervision.
- Load sharing calculations ensuring appropriate weight distribution and maintaining safe working parameters.
- Communication protocols enabling real-time coordination between operators, supervisors, and ground personnel.
- Precision execution achieving simultaneous movements critical for tandem lift success.
Technical Requirements for Tandem Operations:
- Comprehensive lift planning determining crane positioning, load geometry, and rigging configurations.
- Experienced crane operators trained in tandem operations and synchronized movement techniques.
- Qualified lift supervisors coordinating both cranes throughout complex sequences.
- Load monitoring systems tracking weight distribution and ensuring balanced lifts.
- Communication equipment maintaining constant contact between all team members.
Demolition Sector Capabilities
Partnership with Lawrie Demolition: IDI Services maintains strong relationships with Scotland’s leading demolition contractors, providing specialized lifting expertise for:
- Industrial structure dismantling and facility decommissioning.
- Telecommunications tower removal and infrastructure projects.
- Complex elevated operations in challenging environments.
- Multi-crane operations for large-scale demolition projects.
Diverse Demolition Experience:
- Telecommunications masts, radio towers, and transmission structures.
- Industrial chimneys, cooling towers, and tall structures.
- Bridge sections, gantry systems, and elevated infrastructure.
- Building demolition requiring precision component removal.
Elevated and Remote Location Expertise
Working at Height and in Exposed Environments: The Mormond Hill project demonstrated capabilities that extend across diverse challenging locations:
- Remote site operations with comprehensive logistics and mobilization planning.
- Elevated locations managing access, exposure, and environmental factors.
- Weather-dependent operations with monitoring, limits, and flexible scheduling.
- Hilltop and mountaintop projects addressing ground conditions and exposure challenges.
Environmental Adaptations:
- Wind speed monitoring and operational limits ensuring safe lifting conditions.
- Weather forecast integration planning operational windows.
- Ground condition assessment on varied terrain types.
- Emergency response planning for remote locations.
Complete Service Integration
Comprehensive Project Support:
- Detailed engineering assessments and lift planning for complex operations.
- Multiple crane capabilities from compact units to large mobile cranes for tandem operations.
- Experienced personnel including crane operators, lift supervisors, and rigging specialists.
- Comprehensive safety systems and regulatory compliance across all sectors.
Client-Focused Delivery:
- Collaborative planning with demolition contractors and structural engineers.
- Flexible scheduling accommodating project timelines and environmental constraints.
- Clear communication throughout all project phases.
- Reliable execution meeting critical deadlines and technical requirements.
Telecommunications Infrastructure Projects
Scotland’s telecommunications network includes numerous masts, towers, and transmission structures across diverse locations. IDI Services provides specialized lifting capabilities for:
Mast and Tower Dismantling
- Lattice steel tower structures requiring sequential dismantling.
- Telecommunications equipment removal and decommissioning.
- Elevated and remote location operations.
- Tandem crane operations for substantial structures.
Infrastructure Upgrades
- Antenna and dish installations at height.
- Equipment replacement and technology upgrades.
- Structural modifications and mounting systems.
- Emergency repairs and component replacements.
Diverse Location Experience
- Urban rooftop installations with access constraints.
- Rural hilltop sites with exposure and logistics challenges.
- Coastal locations with wind and environmental factors.
- Remote mountaintop facilities requiring specialized access.
Why Choose IDI Services for Tandem Crane Operations
When projects demand synchronized multi-crane operations, IDI Services delivers proven expertise:
Tandem Crane Capabilities
- Comprehensive experience coordinating multiple cranes for complex lifts across industrial and demolition sectors.
- Technical proficiency in load calculations, positioning geometry, and synchronized operations.
- Qualified personnel including experienced tandem lift supervisors and coordinated crane operators.
- Safety systems specifically designed for multi-crane coordination and communication.
Demolition Sector Expertise
- 45+ years of experience supporting Scotland’s demolition industry across diverse project types.
- Established relationships with leading contractors like Lawrie Demolition.
- Proven capabilities dismantling telecommunications masts, industrial structures, and complex facilities.
- Complete service integration from planning through execution and site clearance.
Challenging Location Proficiency
- Remote site operations managing logistics, access, and mobilization challenges.
- Elevated locations working safely at hilltop, mountaintop, and exposed environments.
- Weather management ensuring operations proceed safely within environmental constraints.
- Flexible adaptation responding to site-specific challenges and changing conditions.
Professional Execution
- Zero-incident culture maintaining highest safety standards throughout complex operations.
- Technical excellence achieving precision coordination and controlled operations.
- Clear communication throughout all project phases ensuring alignment with client expectations.
- Proven reliability delivering results on schedule despite challenging operational environments.
When Single Cranes Are Not Enough
Some demolition projects demand capabilities beyond single crane operations. Substantial telecommunications masts, heavy structural components, and load configurations requiring distribution across multiple lifting points necessitate tandem crane operations where two units work as one coordinated system.
The Mormond Hill telecommunications mast presented exactly these requirements—a 30-year-old lattice tower structure on an exposed hilltop demanding synchronized lifting operations in a challenging elevated environment. Single crane operations would have been insufficient for the structural sections’ weight and configuration; tandem operations were essential.
IDI Services brought proven multi-crane coordination expertise to Lawrie Demolition’s project, demonstrating the technical proficiency, experienced personnel, and specialized capabilities that complex demolition operations require. From comprehensive planning through synchronized execution on an exposed Scottish hilltop, the project showcased how tandem crane operations solve challenges that conventional single-crane approaches cannot address.
Whether your demolition project involves telecommunications infrastructure, industrial facilities, or any structures requiring tandem crane operations, elevated location access, or specialized coordination, IDI Services delivers the expertise, equipment, and execution excellence that Scotland’s demolition sector depends on.
For more information on how IDI Services’ tandem crane capabilities can support your demolition or infrastructure project, contact our team today.
 
				 
			
			
			 
			
			
			 
			
			
			 
			
			
			 
			
			
			