Client: Confidential Global Staging Contractor
Services: Structural Verification, 3D Structural Analysis, Temporary Works Assessment

Amrose Associates was appointed to provide independent engineering verification for a sophisticated concert staging arrangement in the live events sector.

The staging contractor had developed the concept design and required independent numerical verification to confirm that the proposed configuration was structurally suitable, compliant and ready for installation.

The staging arrangement comprised an aluminium mothergrid truss system together with a bespoke flown platform. In simple terms, the mothergrid formed the main overhead structural framework supporting lighting, screens, scenery and stage equipment, while the flown platform was suspended using rigging and hoist systems and designed to be raised and lowered during operation.

The challenge

Live event structures present a unique combination of technical, operational and programme pressures. The success, safety and visual impact of the performance environment depended on the staging system functioning exactly as intended, with all elements carefully assessed and coordinated within a demanding installation programme.

The system combined bespoke prefabricated aluminium elements with proprietary truss and rigging components.

Key engineering challenges included:

  • Assessing internal forces within an interconnected aluminium mothergrid system
  • Verifying a custom flown platform suspended from the primary truss arrangement
  • Accounting for dynamic effects associated with hoist operation
  • Reviewing hanging stability and load distribution across multiple suspension points
  • Providing accurate roof reaction loads to facilitate venue roof capacity checks

Our approach

The Amrose team began by developing a detailed 3D structural model of the full mothergrid and flown platform arrangement to comprehensively assess load paths, internal forces, structural behaviour and system performance under the relevant loading conditions.

Verification was carried out in accordance with applicable Eurocode principles and cross-checked against the manufacturers’ published safe working load data for the proprietary truss and rigging components incorporated within the system.

Particular focus was given to:

  • Dynamic amplification factors associated with controlled lifting and lowering
  • Stability of the suspended platform under eccentric and operational loading
  • Interaction between bespoke and proprietary elements
  • Progressive load sharing across hoists and support points

We also calculated the loads being transferred into the venue roof structure, helping the staging contractor coordinate effectively with the venue’s structural team.

The outcome

Our assessment provided the contractor with clear, quantified assurance that the proposed arrangement was structurally suitable for installation and operation.

By identifying and resolving potential issues at the verification stage, the project team benefited from:

  • Reduced programme risk through early technical validation
  • Avoidance of on-site modification and associated cost overruns
  • Improved confidence in lifting and operational safety
  • Clear documentation to support coordination with venue stakeholders

The result was a technically robust and efficiently delivered staging solution, supported by independent engineering verification tailored to the demands of live performance environments.

If you require independent structural verification for complex staging, temporary works or suspended systems, Amrose Associates can provide clear, reliable analysis aligned with demanding event programmes.

Ask Amrose. Call 0113 391 9840 or email enquiries@amroseassociates.com