Client: Mitie (Main Contractor)
Management Company: Concept Building Services
Collaborators: Sovereign Interior Systems Ltd
Project Overview
The Bodmin Law Courts serve as a critical hub for justice in the region, housing secure cell areas that demand strict compliance with safety and security regulations. FELCO was contracted by Mitie, in partnership with Concept Building Services, to deliver essential electrical upgrades as part of a larger refurbishment project. This included the removal and reinstallation of electrical accessories, rewiring of lighting systems, and installation of emergency lighting to meet stringent custodial standards.
The scope of work focused on the basement and secure cell areas, requiring precision, adherence to security protocols, and seamless coordination with multiple contractors. The project culminated in a safer, more secure environment for staff and detainees while ensuring continuity of operations in this high-security facility.
Challenges and Solutions
- Unforeseen Electrical Issues:
Upon removing the existing ceilings to facilitate installation of security metal grid systems, deficiencies in the lighting infrastructure were uncovered. This necessitated an urgent redesign and rewiring to ensure compliance with regulations.- Solution: FELCO promptly dispatched a surveyor to assess the site, issued an expedited quotation, and adapted the program to incorporate rewiring without altering the project’s overall completion date. By maintaining open communication with the main contractor and ceiling installers, work proceeded smoothly and efficiently.
- Operational Constraints:
Bodmin Law Courts remained operational throughout the project, requiring FELCO to work during off-hours to prevent disruptions to legal proceedings.- Solution: FELCO scheduled work during evenings and weekends, ensuring tasks were completed efficiently while minimizing impact on court operations.
- Stringent Security Measures:
Working in the cell areas imposed tight restrictions on access, movement, and materials.- Solution: FELCO ensured all operatives underwent the necessary security clearances. Meticulous planning ensured materials were pre-approved and on-site when needed, minimizing delays and adhering to all security protocols.
- Tight Logistics:
As an off-site project, the team faced challenges in managing personnel, materials, and equipment while adhering to strict deadlines.- Solution: FELCO held a comprehensive pre-start meeting with all stakeholders to align schedules and mitigate logistical bottlenecks. Regular updates ensured smooth delivery of materials and precise coordination with collaborators.
Regulatory Compliance
FELCO’s installation adhered to the strict standards required for custodial environments:
- Lighting for Secure Areas: In compliance with the Ministry of Justice’s STD/E/SPEC/021, all lighting was designed to meet high-impact resistance ratings (IK10 and above), reducing risks of tampering or damage.
- Emergency Lighting: Installed to meet BS 5266, ensuring reliable illumination for safe evacuation during power failures.
- Security Ceilings: Collaborated with Sovereign Interior Systems Ltd to integrate wiring within the new security metal grid ceilings without compromising accessibility or safety.
Collaborative Efforts
FELCO worked with a network of trusted partners to deliver this project successfully:
- Mitie: The main contractor, providing oversight and coordination for the project.
- Concept Building Services: The management company, ensuring budgets and schedules were adhered to while maintaining high-quality standards.
- Sovereign Interior Systems Ltd: Specialists in suspended security ceilings, working in tandem with FELCO to ensure wiring was seamlessly integrated into the new system.
Meticulous Planning
From the outset, FELCO emphasized careful planning and proactive communication:
- Conducted a detailed pre-start meeting to identify potential challenges, define roles, and establish a timeline.
- Coordinated closely with all stakeholders to ensure that the reprogramming caused by rewiring did not delay project completion.
- Delivered comprehensive Risk Assessments and Method Statements (RAMS) and ensured all documentation, including completion certificates, was provided promptly.
Outcome
- Enhanced Security: The upgraded lighting and infrastructure brought the secure cell areas in line with modern custodial standards.
- Compliance Achieved: Met all regulatory requirements, including BS 5266 and Ministry of Justice standards, ensuring safety and operational reliability.
- Seamless Execution: Delivered the project on time, without disrupting court operations, thanks to meticulous planning and out-of-hours work.
Testimonial
I have been working closely with FELCO over the last 2 and a half years and have had nothing but positive experiences. We have delivered a range of reactive and small works on time and without hinderance time and time again.
I consider FELCO an extension of our company as they provide a close and personal service which makes them feel part of my team. On several occasions, they have jumped in and assisted me at short notice when my back’s been against the wall to help deliver projects on time and always to a great standard. I cannot recall a time where I have had the client calling me with issues regarding the services they have supplied.
At times it can be tedious dealing with sub-contractors as you are chasing them for attendance dates, RAMS, and completion certificates, which can be very stressful. This is never the case with FELCO! They provide all their documentation on time and are very diligent on this side of the project. From the quality of their submissions regarding their RAMS and scoping documents, it’s clear to see that they have a sense of pride in all aspects of their work.
Their operatives are also a great representation of their company, which reflects well on us and is key to repeat work from our clients. They know they will be receiving a service from qualified and competent engineers who are polite and punctual, and this again instils confidence in the client that we are the best company to deliver these works and future projects.
— Brad, Concept Building Services