Survey of 120-foot tall flagpole at Bannockburn
Challenge
Challenge
Inspectahire has helped to protect a unique piece of Scottish heritage at one of the country’s most iconic battlefields. We were approached by the National Trust for Scotland to survey the imposing 120-foot tall flagpole at Bannockburn to determine its condition.
The structure – a listed monument – has stood on the battlefield since 1870 and its location commemorates the spot where the Scottish army stood in 1314 to await the approaching English forces. The lower section of the flagpole is made of riveted wrought iron and the upper section is constructed of wood. Because of fears that the metal may have rotted, and the structure would not be able to support a flag, one had not flown from the pole for a number of years.
Described as one of the most important historical monuments at Bannockburn, the 132-year old flagpole was constructed at a ship yard in Dumbarton and erected by Dumbarton and Stirling Masonic Lodges.
Solution
As people and businesses become more environmentally aware and want to reduce their carbon footprint, the switch to renewable energy grows apace. To meet this demand the number and scale of wind farms are increasing, and so too is the requirement to ensure they are operating effectively. Operating over 35 metres (114 feet) from the ground and with three blades each measuring over 20 metres (65 feet), a wind turbine is not the easiest piece of equipment to inspect. A wind turbine is situated on a hillside in a fairly harsh environment and is continually exposed to the elements. Ensuring that all the components are operating the way they should is a standard health and safety compliance procedure.
Result
The flagpole’s exact condition was identified and the necessary repairs could be carried out to allow a flag to once again fly high above the site.