This summer we secured a contract in Leicester. This was to supply School Washroom Cubicles as a result of the current facilities needing a revamp. We were to supply and install new washroom areas in to Countesthorpe Leysland Community College. Being a community college, this falls within the education sector. So, it is the ideal period for refurbishing because there are no students present that require washroom facilities.
For this project, we were involved from start to finish. From initial consultation and survey, all the way through to installation and handover. In this blog, we will explain HOW we went about each step and WHY went about it in that manner.
Survey & Consultation
For the initial consultation and survey, we met on-site to discuss the requirements and specifications. During the COVID-19 pandemic site surveys have changed dramatically to combat the spread of harmful bacteria. There are standard PPE requirements. Such as safety boots and high-visibility vests. However, in the current climate, you are also required to wear face masks and sometimes we are even asked to wear disposable gloves. This is done to keep the spread of harmful bacteria to a minimum. If you would like to read a more detailed explanation of PPE you can follow this link which has multiple documents that you may find useful: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/wuhan-novel-coronavirus-infection-prevention-and-control
Once on-site, we carried out the survey. Measuring all the rooms and taking note of the positions of all the current services. We also liaised with the client to find out as much as possible about the environment and the end user. Knowing the age group of the end user helps decide what School Washroom Cubicles to use and what core material to manufacture.
Design
For the design process, we decided that our Power+ Cubicle range was the most suitable. Considering the age range (college students) and environment we felt that Compact Grade Laminate was ideal for the washroom areas. Compact Grade Laminate is waterproof, robust, and extremely durable. This is suitable for this environment. Unfortunately, washrooms are often used for vandalism in the education sector as it is common for there to be no members of staff in these areas. Taking that into account we made the decision to allow for a strong cubicle system manufactured from an incredibly durable material. This system is also full height from floor to ceiling, giving the user full privacy which is increasingly important for older students.
With the design finalised, we presented our quotation and rendered drawings for the client. You can see the technical drawings and visuals below:
Once the contract had been won, we set a start date and so we were ready to begin manufacture and installation.
Installation
With the School Washroom Cubicles, IPS panels and vanity units manufactured and pre-assembled where applicable, we started the installation process.
Prior to arriving on-site our installation team is fully DBS checked, as a result, our clients know we are compliant and suitable to be on site. With many projects, you must work with other trades. This is because communication, cooperation and support are incredibly important. Liaising with other contractors such as flooring companies and electricians is vital for a project to run fluidly and cohesively. When this does not happen it can result in projects being delayed.
Handover & Aftercare
Once we had finished the installation, we carried out a final clean and tested all services. With the handover, we supplied detailed O+M Manuals (Operations and Maintenance) to the school. This will give the staff detailed information on all the products and materials used. The O+M Manual will also state where they can locate each product and how to best clean and maintain them. Once we handover a project, although to a point, our work has been completed. We still offer an aftercare service. We will always go back and correct or replace damaged panels or products.
