North Carolina Cancer Hospital “Topped Off”
UNC Health Care and
Skanska USA Building Inc. held the “topping off” ceremony
on September 25, 2007 for the NC Cancer Hospital.
A “topping off” is when the highest structural element- a steel
beam - of a high-rise is hoisted to the top of the building. This beam
is first signed by the workers and project members and then lifted by cable
to the top of the structure. After it is welded into place, a small pine
tree is anchored on top.
“The tree is the key symbol and is not, as many might suppose, a holiday
touch. In the high-steel trade, it announces that the construction has reached
the sky without loss of life or serious injury. And it is meant to auger
well for the future inhabitants of the building.”
Skanska has been diligent about workplace safety throughout the project.
And for UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center patients and the health
care professionals who care for them, that’s great news.
The cancer hospital is on schedule for a July 2009 construction completion
date and a late fall opening.
Event Highlights
Adapted and quoted from an article in National Review Online article by
Peter Wood 12.23.03