Description
One of Group Metroplitans’ long-standing blue chip financial clients required the replacement of 134 distribution boards (DBs) that had reached the end of their operational lifespan. Each new DB was equipped with surge protection devices and Schneider PM111 meters to allow for energy monitoring where necessary. Additionally, all outgoing circuits underwent inspection and testing upon the completion of each DB replacement.
The project took place at the client's world headquarters in Canary Wharf, a fully occupied 38-floor building spanning 157,164m², with approximately 10,000 occupants.
To prevent and minimise operational disruptions, most of the work was completed over weekends, supplemented by night shifts from Monday to Thursday. The structured approach was as follows:
- Friday Evening: Isolation and removal of existing DBs.
- Friday Night - Saturday: Installation of new DBs.
- Sunday: Inspection and testing of critical DBs.
- Weeknights: Testing of non-critical DBs.
Midway through the project, Group Metroplitan was requested to bring the completion date forward to align with another project running in unison, Power Monitoring System (PMS) installation. To meet this challenge, the team increased the number of DB replacements over the weekends, working extended shifts to stay on schedule. Efficient workforce management was crucial, with Group Metroplitan overseeing a subcontractor team of 6-10 members per weekend. A GML manager or supervisor was present on-site every weekend to maintain quality control and ensure smooth delivery.
To minimise environmental impact and reduce future replacements, GML utilised long-life, low-maintenance equipment. Many existing DB carcasses were retained, reducing the need for new steel and minimising waste.
The project was completed on time despite facing unexpected scheduling challenges, with all key milestones successfully met to ensure that UPS DB replacements were completed by the agreed deadlines with minimal disruption to client operations.
"The project was extremely challenging at times, with the team working long hours, but we managed to meet our PC date and completed the works to a good standard." Joe Mason, Senior Project Manager at Group Metropolitan.
This project showcases GML’s expertise in delivering complex electrical infrastructure upgrades within a fully operational commercial environment. The success of the DB replacements was achieved through planning, adaptability and a commitment to quality, ensuring the long-standing client’s power systems remained reliable and future-ready.
