The scaffolding & formwork division of Al-Futtaim Engineering, a fully-accredited ISO 9001 company, has a proven track record in providing access to construction, industrial and petrochemical projects throughout the Middle East.

Considered to be one of the largest and most high-profile suppliers of scaffolding, cradles and suspended access systems, the division has a reputation for applying leading-edge solutions for high-profile prestige projects.

At the Al Gurg Tower, the basis of the horizontal floor slab and beam formwork used was the Thyssen Hunnebeck range of KST flying tables with a full range of accessories that combines to provide a complete support and decking system. This high-end formwork is recognised as one of the most highly regarded purpose-made formworks in the construction industry to enable safe and efficient construction to meet project schedules.

It is an economically versatile system that can be adapted on site to suit the varying plan layouts during the construction.

The KST flying tables system uses foldable steel props with a revolutionary KST Head, eliminating the need for any bracing to the props.

The versatile H20 beams are fixed in a "grillage" manner to perfectly transfer the slab loads to the props.

To 'strike' the KST table at the end of the mandatory curing period, the main "pin" of the KST prop is first given a slight tap with a hammer - this enables the decking of the KST table to drop by 2 mm.

For the project, Al Futtaim Engineering personnel worked closely with contractors in crew training to ensure safe assembly and erection works.

As part of the ISO 9001 accreditation, Al Futtaim Engineering's senior scaffolders are trained in safety and selected senior scaffolders hold CITB certificates.

The Rashidia head office's computerised design division is staffed by qualified engineers who assess the cleint's requirements and provide comprehensive working drawings along with all quotations for major projects.

The company provides access and scaffolding systems on a contract basis and hire only operations. Spritebrand, the stock scaffolding system, is manufactured to international standards and is adaptable and flexible in use.

For temporary suspended access cradles, the company uses Skyman H500/800 traction hoists and cradle platforms. Permanent installations for window cleaning are also available such as the Skyman P 3000 offering full access to external facades for any maintenance activity.

For heavy-duty multi-tiered suspended systems, the Beeche Systems of the US are used.

As well as Al Gurg tower, Al Futtaim scaffolding and access systems have been applied on many prestigious projects including Burj Al Arab and Emirates Towers.