Certify that our stages being built to manufacturers specifications

[Vhaxx202]

Need your help with a small issue that we can't seem to resolve.

I live in Miami, FL. We were asked to hire an outside independent engineer to certify that our stages were being built to manufacturers specifications. We submitted CAD drawing for each stage along with load requirements with our permit application which has historically been the only requirement and inspected by City of Miami, FL building dept prior to event and by City of Miami, FL fire dept during setup.

These stages are temporary structures erected by certified stage contractors and not permanent. I have called 2 engineers to attempt at complying with this ridiculous request 4 days prior to the event and both stated that they would not accept because they are not willing to incur the liability on their license for a temporary structure which is totally understandable.

Please help me in finding a resolution to this surprise.

 

[Q_Goest]

We were asked to hire an outside independent engineer to certify that our stages were being built to manufacturers specifications.

Have you contacted the manufacturer of these stages? Can they not support you?

 

[Vhaxx202]

Thought of that. The City of Miami Said that an engineer has to be licensed in the State of Florida.

 

[Q_Goest]

Can you get the manufacturer to coordinate this with a local PE (Professional Engineer)? Perhaps the manufacturer could send someone to inspect the stage along with a local Florida PE. Have the manufacturer's rep present how it's installed to the PE. I can understand a PE's reluctance to do this but if there is technical support by the manufacturer, I'd think they would be much more likely to sign off on the stage assembly/inspection. Also, limiting the signature to assembly only might get the PE out of any trouble for failures due to poor design.

 

[alphy]

I understand the importance of ensuring that structures are built to the appropriate specifications to ensure safety and compliance. It is understandable that you are facing difficulties in finding an engineer to certify your stages, given the short notice and the temporary nature of the structures.

One potential solution could be to reach out to the manufacturer of the stages and ask if they have any engineers on staff who could provide certification. They would be the most knowledgeable about the specifications and could potentially provide a certification at a lower cost or no cost at all.

Alternatively, you could also try reaching out to other certified stage contractors in your area to see if they have any recommendations for engineers who would be willing to certify your stages. It may also be worth contacting the City of Miami building department or fire department to see if they have any suggestions or alternative solutions.

In the future, it may be beneficial to communicate with the city or event organizers beforehand to clarify any additional requirements for temporary structures, in order to avoid any last-minute surprises. I hope this helps and good luck with your event.