Challenges
The sheer scale and complexity of the site presented numerous challenges for our team. The power station comprised over 100 buildings and structures, including large boiler houses, turbine halls, flue-gas desulphurisation plants, cooling towers, and three large chimney stacks, as well as various workshops, storage buildings, substations and water pumping stations.
Access difficulties were a significant hurdle. Many areas required specialised access methods, including scaffolding, rope access, and Mobile Elevating Work Platforms (MEWPs). Furthermore, strict adherence to the client’s safety systems was essential, necessitating various work permits to access different parts of the site.
Coordination with other contractors posed another challenge. We needed to work seamlessly alongside an asbestos removal contractor to gain access beyond known ACMs, and a supplier who provided scaffolding, platforms and ladders for otherwise inaccessible areas.
Our Solution
To address these challenges, we deployed an experienced team led by a dedicated project manager and 15 surveyors who were posted full-time to the project for 10 weeks. A Project Director was appointed to oversee the delivery of the survey and coordinate input from all stakeholders into our approach and delivery methods.
We invested in specialised training to streamline operations. Our project manager and senior surveyors underwent the client’s in-house permit issuer training course, while a lead surveyor from each two-person survey team took the permit acceptor course. This enabled permits to be issued quickly and efficiently, helping to keep the project programme on track.
To maintain constant review of progress and focus on site safety, we instituted daily operations meetings. These gatherings included the station manager, all department heads and sub-contractor managers, providing a forum to discuss and proactively resolve any key issues that arose.
Succesful Project Delivery
Despite the numerous challenges, the project was delivered on time and within budget, with all aims achieved. We successfully identified and analysed thousands of potential hazardous material samples, providing our client with comprehensive data to inform their demolition plans.
This contract demonstrates Lucion’s ability to manage large-scale intrusive surveys in high-risk environments, maximising internal resources and collaborating with stakeholders to achieve stated aims. Our team performed admirably under strict client-led health and safety management procedures, further cementing Lucion’s reputation for delivering challenging projects through effective resource management and stakeholder collaboration.
