Rope Access Services on a High-Risk Roof Refurbishment

The Challenge – Accessing the Inaccessible

This project presented a significant logistical and operational challenge. The roof structure required extensive refurbishment, yet it was located directly above sensitive, live systems that could not be shut down or risked being damaged by falling debris or vibration.

Traditional scaffolding or large-scale access platforms were not feasible options. Any movement or miscalculated load could jeopardise the assets below. The client needed a contractor with the technical ability and safety track record to carry out high-level works in such a sensitive environment — without compromise.

That’s where we came in. With decades of experience in roof refurbishment, rope access, and specialist maintenance, we were able to design a bespoke access strategy that allowed our teams to work efficiently and safely in this demanding setting.

Our Approach

Combining MEWP and Rope Access Expertise

At the core of this project is our ability to combine multiple access methods to create the safest and most effective solution possible.

1. Truck-Mounted MEWP Deployment

To reach key refurbishment zones, we deployed a truck-mounted Mobile Elevated Work Platform (MEWP) on one side of the building. This provided a stable, controllable platform for operatives to safely carry out works on the areas of the roof that were accessible by machinery.

Our team conducted a full risk assessment before setup, ensuring that the MEWP could operate without risk to the live assets below. This allowed us to make rapid progress on sections of the roof that could be accessed directly, improving efficiency and reducing overall project time.

2. Rope Access for High-Risk Elevations

Where machinery could not reach, our IRATA-certified rope access technicians took over. Rope access was essential for elevations and confined zones where even compact machinery could not safely operate.

Our rope access division is one of the most experienced in Scotland, with a proven track record in industrial roofing, cladding, and building maintenance. Our technicians combine IRATA-level expertise with years of practical experience, ensuring every movement and anchor point is carefully controlled.

By utilising rope access, we were able to reach and refurbish high-risk areas without the need for intrusive scaffolding — reducing costs, setup time, and disruption to ongoing operations.

Precision, Planning, and Protection

With critical live assets directly beneath the working zone, protection and precision were paramount. Our project team implemented a strict sequence of works, beginning with the most sensitive sections of the roof. This ensured that we addressed high-risk areas first while maintaining ongoing asset protection measures.

Temporary barriers and protective netting were installed beneath the working areas, and every stage of the process was monitored by our safety management team. Regular toolbox talks, on-site inspections, and communication with the client ensured complete alignment throughout the refurbishment.

By maintaining a collaborative approach between our MEWP operators, rope access team, and project management staff, we successfully progressed the refurbishment while keeping all live systems operational.

Delivering Where Others Can’t

Our multi-disciplinary approach is what sets us apart in the field of specialist access and roof refurbishment.

Our ability to seamlessly integrate MEWP operations, rope access, and traditional roofing expertise allowed us to achieve consistent progress on a project that many contractors would have deemed inaccessible.

The benefits to the client were clear:

• Zero downtime for live assets during works
• Complete safety assurance, with all personnel trained to the highest standards
• Efficient project delivery, with minimal disruption to site operations
• Long-term roof protection, ensuring asset integrity for years to come

This project demonstrates the power of combining innovation, skill, and adaptability — the cornerstones of Balmore’s reputation as one of Scotland’s leading providers of specialist access and roof refurbishment services.

The Balmore Advantage

At Balmore, our mission is to deliver where others can’t. We’ve built our reputation on solving the kinds of challenges that require out-of-the-box thinking and a deep understanding of access methodology.

Whether it’s rope access for high-rise maintenance, MEWP-supported roof refurbishment, or industrial cleaning and inspection, we bring the same level of precision and professionalism to every job.

Our clients span the commercial, industrial, and public sectors, and they trust us to complete critical works safely, efficiently, and in full compliance with industry regulations.

This project is a perfect example of what we do best — combining IRATA-certified rope access, MEWP technology, and decades of roofing expertise to deliver high-quality results in environments where safety and accuracy are non-negotiable.

When traditional methods aren’t an option, we provide the solution. Our experience, versatility, and commitment to safety make us the trusted choice for roof refurbishment, specialist access, and high-level maintenance projects across Scotland.

High-level works demand high-level solutions — and that’s exactly what we deliver.