3D digital documentation for disaster management in historic buildings: Applications following fire damage at the Mackintosh building, The Glasgow School of Art

Abstract

Abstract 3D digital documentation generates accurate spatial data. This data can be processed and developed for use in a range of different applications. Within the cultural heritage sector, the use of 3D data is becoming more established to aid conservation. However, little work has been done to investigate the role of scanning surveys for postfire inspection of historic buildings with timber components. The Glasgow School of Art and Historic Environment Scotland have been working collaboratively on digital heritage projects for almost a decade. When the fire at the Mackintosh building occurred on 23rd May 2014, the joint team immediately began a programme of emergency 3D digital documentation in the fire-affected areas. Prior to this, The Glasgow School of Art had undertaken a laser scan survey of the exterior of the Mackintosh building in 2008. Subsequently, comprehensive laser scanning has been carried out throughout the whole building. This paper outlines how and why 3D digital documentation was carried out, highlighting the immediate benefits for disaster management and immediate decision making in an emergency situation and additionally, demonstrates the ongoing research benefits for the longer-term conservation and restoration of the Mackintosh. The results of the documentation produced an accurate and high-resolution 3D spatial record of a significant historic building despite the challenging material properties of the postfire interior environment. Analysis of the data provided conservation teams and building control with valuable metrics for building access, health and safety and structural deformation.