Client: Palace Hotel
Scope: Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR), remedial works, and ongoing reactive repairs in a fully operational 24/7 commercial hotel.
Objective: Ensuring Safety and Reliability for the Palace Hotel
Project Overview
The Palace Hotel in Paignton is a landmark property renowned for its exceptional service and popularity with both locals and visitors. Over the past eight years, FELCO has become a trusted partner, providing a range of electrical services, including planned preventive maintenance (PPM), upgrades, reactive repairs, and alterations.
One of the most notable projects during this partnership was the recent completion of an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) and subsequent remedial works. This comprehensive inspection required a detailed and intrusive evaluation of the hotel’s electrical systems, all while ensuring operations continued smoothly for guests and staff.
The Challenge
Operating within a busy hotel environment presented several unique challenges:
- 24/7 Operations: Ensuring all electrical work caused minimal disruption to guests and staff in a round-the-clock setting.
- Intrusive Testing: Gaining access to electrical systems concealed behind walls, under floors, and in high-traffic areas.
- Guest Safety and Comfort: Maintaining a safe and welcoming environment during intrusive works.
- Reactive Repairs: Quickly addressing unexpected electrical issues to ensure uninterrupted operations.
Our Approach
Detailed Planning and Communication
- Conducted pre-project meetings with the hotel’s management to align work schedules with quieter periods of guest activity.
- Developed site-specific Risk Assessments and Method Statements (RAMS) to ensure a safe and efficient process.
EICR Execution with Minimal Disruption
- Carried out a thorough inspection of the hotel’s electrical infrastructure, including distribution boards, lighting, power outlets, and emergency systems.
- Scheduled intrusive testing during off-peak hours, with clear signage to inform guests of restricted areas.
Swift Remedial Works
- Provided a detailed EICR report categorising issues as C1 (immediate danger), C2 (potential danger), C3 (recommended improvement), or FI (further investigation).
- Gained prompt approval to address these issues, ensuring compliance with BS 7671 standards.
- Upgraded key components, including distribution boards and emergency lighting, while resolving concealed wiring faults identified during the inspection.
Proactive Reactive Repairs
- Established a system for quick responses to unexpected electrical issues.
- Completed essential repairs to critical systems such as guest room power, kitchen equipment, and communal area lighting.
Results
- Full Compliance: The hotel’s electrical systems now meet all necessary safety and operational standards.
- Minimal Disruption: Work was completed with minimal impact on the hotel’s daily operations, preserving its reputation for exceptional service.
- Enhanced Partnership: FELCO further strengthened its trusted relationship with the Palace Hotel.
- Operational Efficiency: Reactive repairs ensured the hotel remained fully functional even during unforeseen issues.
Key Considerations
- Guest Safety: Prioritised clear communication and secure work zones to protect guests and staff.
- Innovative Access Solutions: Found practical ways to access concealed wiring with minimal disruption.
- Energy Efficiency: Upgraded emergency lighting to modern, energy-efficient systems to meet compliance and reduce costs.
- Reliable Delivery: Completed all works on time and within budget, showcasing FELCO’s commitment to excellence.
Testimonial
“The team at FELCO has been fantastic at maintaining and upgrading the Palace Hotel’s electrical systems over the past eight years. Their expertise, professionalism, and proactive approach have been invaluable, particularly during the recent EICR and remedial works. Despite the challenges of working in a busy, operational hotel, FELCO ensured everything was completed efficiently, safely, and with minimal disruption to our guests. Their ability to respond quickly to reactive issues has been a lifesaver on many occasions, and I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend them to any commercial property.”
— Palace Hotel Maintenance Department