Many electrical projects involve a multi-stage process. When you want something modernised, you can’t just erase what was there before.

Often, a project includes a demolition phase before the actual scope of work can begin. That is precisely what happened when DGE powered the new office space and mezzanine floor at the Barfoot & Thompson Pukekohe site.

Electrical demolition is a complex process far from just ripping out a few wires. It takes intense safety measures and practical planning with the other trades involved…

The Scope

Electrical revamp of the Barfoot & Thompson building
This project was undertaken in two phases. The first phase involved our team demolishing the existing electrical system in the building. Unfortunately, you need more than just a sledgehammer to get that done! Firstly, we needed to isolate all the current circuits for safety and arrange for Vector to disconnect the existing switchboard from the network.
Then, as the building was still operational throughout the project, we installed a temporary power supply fed using the original mains supply. This temporary supply had to be a single-phase variety, not the existing 3-phase power that was there on site, adding further complications to the project.
Next, we went through the building, testing and removing the old power points and light switches. Then, when the builders removed the gib from the walls and the ceilings, all cabling was removed.
Stage 2 began once the builders had started work on the new section of the building constructed in the existing carpark. It doubled the size of the building, creating a much larger working space, along with an impressive mezzanine floor.
The space was aesthetic and modern in appearance, so it was our task to create a state-of-the-art electrical system to match! Working with the builders, we installed a new power supply and switchboard (plus all the cabling and fittings to power them), along with data, security and technical systems, like their air conditioning. Finally, we removed the temporary supply, fitted off and the project was completed!

The Challenges

Coordination amongst a large number of trades
It is never a straightforward task when you are working with numerous other trades. Their processes and timelines do not always fit with our proactive strategies. Much careful planning went into how we were going to navigate the schedule to keep the project on task and on time.
The big dreams of building designers and the execution required to bring those dreams to life do not always match up. There are practical elements to consider, like installation, supply and demand and leaving enough time for project completion.
Sometimes, those dreams even shift, impacting the work that needs to be carried out. Couple that with multiple trades working to differing timelines, and you have the potential for deadline blowouts.

The Delivery

Keeping on top of the whole project
Although the various trades had their ideas of timelines, we knew what had to take place (and when) to keep the project on track. That meant working to our meticulously crafted project plan and staying on top of the work being carried out by the other trades involved.
Being aware of what was happening allowed us to be ready to execute each part of the job at the right time. Our team were on hand as the walls were being constructed to get the cabling in before the gib and ceilings were installed. Then, once installation took place, it was time for us to fit the external elements and get everything live.
When the scope shifted slightly to meet the design requirements, we amended our plan to ensure there were no disruptions to the project, then worked diligently to implement the amended strategy.

The Outcome

Carefully planned timelines create project success!
When the correct plan is in place and the team follows it, the results are a modern and effective electrical system delivered on time and to the highest standard.
Working proactively and keeping on top of what the other trades are completing for the project allowed our team to execute everything we needed to create an impressive result that delighted the client.
If you would like your next electrical project to be managed by a skilled and proactive team, then get in touch with DGE today.