Construction
ConstructionBACK TO BASE BUILDING PROJECTS
Taking an area back to base building conditions, whether it is an individual suit, an entire floor or a whole building, often becomes a notable project because of the complexity of circumstances that surround it. And yet at first glance, many people would suggest it is simple. However, this sentiment of oversimplification is exactly the reason why, time and time again there far too many mistakes. Unnecessary mistakes.
Costly mistakes.
Why choose Smith & Long to perform your next “Back to Base Building Project”? Because of our organized and methodical systems experience. As a well-experienced contractor with working in “live” environments, Smith & Long is the obvious choice for systematic de-commissioning of these spaces.
As with any project type, whether it be within an industrial, commercial or institutional facility, we respect that work activities all possess potential to disturb and disrupt our client and other tenants within the area. However, when specifically working on Back to Base Building Projects, the greatest area of importance falls to that of project scope, as it takes on new meaning with potential for disastrous outcomes.
The key reason for this distinction is the need to preserve the functional integrity of all remaining building systems. If this is not respected, not only can negative Health & Safety conditions be created, but the cost to restore disconnected or removed portions of system infrastructure can be both significant and unnecessary. Complicating this situation further is when the existing building systems documentation is either inaccurate or non-existent or legacy products and components are involved.
Existing building infrastructure such as life safety systems; fire alarm, sprinkler, security, emergency lighting must remain intact and functional. But what happens when some of these systems have been intertwined over the years through many evolutions of building use? Or if portions of the building are to remain active and functional during the project and thereafter? Added to that are base building communication systems, main and secondary electrical distribution.
At Smith & Long we take pride in our systematic approach to mitigating and addressing these complications in Back to Base Building projects by implementing our Method of Procedure (MOP) documentation protocol. This approach ensures everyone is quite literally “on the same page” when it comes to clearly communicating project scope. It includes a comprehensive step by step roadmap that includes key items such as; client defined scope, Health & Safety compliance, electrical equipment, Lock Out & Tagging procedures, associated documentation, contact information and a project Roles & Responsibilities matrix.
As a collaborative team player, Smith & Long excels at elevating the enthusiasm for a project that otherwise might be considered as mundane or not important as it is not “building something”. On the contrary, we see this important step in a building’s lifecycle as an opportunity. A vital opportunity to successfully prepare for the new iteration of design and function for the next user group. As such, we ensure that we always finish strong by leaving the now “emptied” space in a well identified, organized and professional manner, compliant with local electrical, utility and building authorities.