Structural Inspection and Safety: Palau Sant Jordi
Ensuring safety in one of Barcelona's most iconic architectural landmarks is a challenge that demands the highest level of technical precision.
SOCOTEC has carried out the structural inspection and validation of the Catwalk and its support systems under the dome of the Palau Sant Jordi
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- Client: BSM
- Location: Barcelona
- Year: 2025
Symbol of the city of Barcelona
Modern Architecture
Palau Sant Jordi is much more than just an arena; it is the heart of events in Barcelona. This masterpiece by Arata Isozaki (Pritzker Prize) was born for the 1992 Olympic Games and remains an icon of the city today.
What makes this building unique is its spectacular dome, raised using the Pantadome system—a milestone in engineering that allows a massive space to be covered without any middle columns. With a capacity for 17,000 people, it is clear that structural safety is not something that can be left to chance: it is the foundation for every concert or competition to be a resounding success.
The Catwalk
Suspended beneath the immense dome is the technical walkway, or Catwalk. This element is critical, as it supports the loads of lighting, sound, and the complex rigging systems required for every show. Its maintenance and periodic review are fundamental for the safety of both workers and attendees.
Palau Sant Jordi is much more than just an arena; it is the heart of events in Barcelona. This masterpiece by Arata Isozaki (Pritzker Prize) was born for the 1992 Olympic Games and remains an icon of the city today.
What makes this building unique is its spectacular dome, raised using the Pantadome system—a milestone in engineering that allows a massive space to be covered without any middle columns. With a capacity for 17,000 people, it is clear that structural safety is not something that can be left to chance: it is the foundation for every concert or competition to be a resounding success.
The Catwalk
Suspended beneath the immense dome is the technical walkway, or Catwalk. This element is critical, as it supports the loads of lighting, sound, and the complex rigging systems required for every show. Its maintenance and periodic review are fundamental for the safety of both workers and attendees.
Guaranteeing Structural Integrity
At the request of Barcelona de Serveis Municipals (B:SM), SOCOTEC has led the inspection and specialized testing campaign at Palau Sant Jordi during the summer of 2025. The main objective has been to validate the safety of the support elements and the structure's response to operational loads.
Methodology and Testing Performed
Our intervention was based on a protocol of the highest technical rigor:
Real Load Testing
- Testing in six strategic areas of the Catwalk using physical counterweights to monitor the response of the load cells.
Cable Tension Control
- Precise verification of the tension in the suspension cables using Dillon technology.
Non-Destructive Testing (NDT)
- Visual inspection and magnetic particle testing for the detection of fatigue or cracks in welded joints.
Review of Auxiliary Elements
- Inspection of the fixings for large elements such as the scoreboard, speakers, lighting fixtures, and the motorized curtain system.
Inspection of Columns and Anchorages
- Ultrasonic testing (UT) of the anchor bolts in the perimeter columns of the structure.
SOCOTEC
Experts in Steel Structure Inspection
At SOCOTEC, we understand that steel structures are the skeleton of modern industry and architecture. Our inspection division specializes in the complete life cycle of these structures, from their conception to critical maintenance.
Why choose SOCOTEC's inspection service?
High Technical Specialization
We have certified Level II and III technicians for Non-Destructive Testing (NDT), allowing us to identify pathologies invisible to the human eye before they turn into critical failures. We use cutting-edge techniques such as:
Ultrasonic and Magnetic Particle Testing.
Dye penetrants and thickness measurement.
Analysis of corrosion and material degradation.
Access to Complex Environments (Rigging and Vertical Work)
Unlike other consultancies, we integrate our own teams of technicians specialized in vertical work and rigging. This allows us to inspect structures at great heights—such as the Palau Sant Jordi dome—efficiently, safely, and without the need for large scaffolding infrastructures, reducing costs and execution times.
Regulatory Compliance and Safety
Our inspections are governed by the strictest standards (UNE-EN and ISO standards), guaranteeing that our clients' assets comply with all current occupational and structural safety regulations.
At SOCOTEC, we understand that steel structures are the skeleton of modern industry and architecture. Our inspection division specializes in the complete life cycle of these structures, from their conception to critical maintenance.
Why choose SOCOTEC's inspection service?
High Technical Specialization
We have certified Level II and III technicians for Non-Destructive Testing (NDT), allowing us to identify pathologies invisible to the human eye before they turn into critical failures. We use cutting-edge techniques such as:
Ultrasonic and Magnetic Particle Testing.
Dye penetrants and thickness measurement.
Analysis of corrosion and material degradation.
Access to Complex Environments (Rigging and Vertical Work)
Unlike other consultancies, we integrate our own teams of technicians specialized in vertical work and rigging. This allows us to inspect structures at great heights—such as the Palau Sant Jordi dome—efficiently, safely, and without the need for large scaffolding infrastructures, reducing costs and execution times.
Regulatory Compliance and Safety
Our inspections are governed by the strictest standards (UNE-EN and ISO standards), guaranteeing that our clients' assets comply with all current occupational and structural safety regulations.
"What sets us apart is our ability to reach where others cannot. Thanks to our team of rigging and vertical work specialists, we can inspect structures at great heights with full agility, without the need for bulky scaffolding and ensuring a fast and accurate diagnosis."
The intervention at the Palau Sant Jordi reaffirms SOCOTEC's leadership in the management of complex infrastructures. Thanks to the combination of precision engineering and high-altitude operational capacity, we continue to build trust and guarantee safety in the most iconic buildings of our cities.
