
Introduction to



BRACKNELL, OFFICE REFURBISHMENT
We have included this case study as it demonstrates again our ability to deliver complex projects in live operational environments where disruption to the client was not acceptable. This project is also relevant as the end product was a high quality fit out project.
We have set out the scope of works below along with the key challenges encountered and where the EPScm team added value and benefit to our client.
Project Date:
2022/2023
Project Value:
£ 6.5M
Work Scope:
-
Removal of high-risk asbestos from ceiling voids, service risers, walls, and floor screed. This involved the erection of full asbestos enclosures under negative pressures for safe removal. Decontamination facilities were erected on the floor plate for the suppliers' operatives. Waste was bulk stored within the enclosures and safely removed during a night shift avoiding interaction with staff. Transit routes were cleaned each evening post waste removal to ensure no contamination of clean areas. Air monitoring in progress at all times.
-
Demolition of existing welfare facilities enabling the construction of the contemporary design layout
-
Full design for all disciplines including structural engineering, temporary works, Architecture for General fit out, MEP including tying in the new mechanical installation into the base build systems, Data, security & access, and electrostatic flooring (EDS).
-
Complete CATB Fit out of approx. 3,000m2 office area over two floors including reception area, open office workspaces, break out spaces, meeting rooms and comms rooms.
-
Maintaining business continuity was the projects number one risk and mitigation strategies were regularly updated as the construction programme progressed. Communication strategies were carefully prepared by site facilities and EPScm and multiple stakeholder engagement workshops were chaired and presented by EPScm to ensure all occupants were aware of the works and specific critical construction activities. We found, more informed comms strategies made those occupants above and below the construction site far more co-operative and understanding of the works.
Project Challenges:
-
All works completed whilst the floors above and below were in full occupation.
-
Removal of asbestos waste from the building whilst avoiding further contamination
-
Management of noisy work streams
-
Management of multiple stakeholders.
-
Sensitive communications due to the nature of contamination.
Value added by EPScm:
-
Diversity of supply chain permitted our managers to collaborate directly with occupants for both the decant and reoccupation phases.
-
Internal technical skills within EPScm to effectively manage and monitor the quality of works associated with the asbestos removal.
-
Design and implementation of large work concurrencies. We implemented Safe systems of work whereby fit out works and asbestos removal works were undertaken concurrently.
-
EPScm worked tirelessly with our asbestos removal subcontractor and analytical sub-consultant to design safe systems of works for the operatives but also the occupants of the building. Whilst minimizing disruption to the occupants works could be undertaken during normal working hours. Again, this attracted large commercial and programme savings, avoiding significant work packages being undertaken outside of working hours.
-
A high end fit out including bespoke joinery detailing for both reception area and various break out spaces.

Please see below a testimonial from Phil Scrutton, Head of Projects, UK&I Properties, N&W Europe
“….From the very start of Fujitsu’s partnership with EPS, they have proven themselves supportive and flexible.
Key to the relationship has been EPS’ enthusiasm to understand the varying priorities underlying particular projects. They will then apply their knowledge and skills to define the best way to satisfy these priorities.
On an operational level, EPS have become renown within our internal teams for being tightly organised and maintaining good housekeeping. They consistently return robust audit scores, from our third party health and safety partners, which, in turn, reflect well with Fujitsu’s customers.
EPS’ collaborative approach fits ideally with the way Fujitsu want to deliver projects within our estate; a trusting relationship which recognises the expertise of each party involved, in order to achieve success….”