Replacing Critical Plant Room Infrastructure in a Live Custodial Site
Introduction
In secure and custodial environments, the reliability of core infrastructure is non-negotiable. When a live custodial facility required a full replacement of its plant room heating system, including new boilers, pipework, and power upgrades, the work had to be delivered without disrupting day-to-day operations.
SSH Building was selected to deliver this complex package, which combines mechanical, electrical, and building works under a single contract. With the heating system still in active use and the site operating under strict security protocols, the project demanded careful sequencing, close coordination, and full compliance throughout.
Project Overview
The client required a full boiler replacement programme for a live custodial site. Alongside the mechanical works, the project included the physical extension and refurbishment of the plant room, as well as key electrical upgrades to ensure the new installation could operate safely and efficiently long term.
SSH was responsible not only for delivery, but also for managing how the works were integrated into the live site, maintaining heating provision throughout and ensuring full compliance with security and operational protocols.
Work Completed
SSH Building delivered the following works in sequence:
– Safe removal of all existing plant equipment, including decommissioning of redundant boilers and services
– Installation of new high-efficiency boilers and associated pipework, with temporary arrangements maintained to ensure continuity
– Upgrade of electrical power and control systems to support the new equipment
– Ground excavation and structural building works to extend the plant room and accommodate modern infrastructure.
– Commissioning, testing and certification of all systems to ensure compliance and operational
All works were delivered in accordance with statutory regulations and site-specific restrictions.
Managing Risk in a Live Custodial Environment
Working in a secure environment presents unique challenges, particularly when infrastructure upgrades must be implemented without disrupting service delivery.
Key challenges included:
– No tolerance for disruption to heating or hot water provision during the works
– Strict access control and supervision, with all operatives subject to background checks and escorted procedures
– Phased working and temporary service arrangements are carefully planned to allow demolition, installation, and testing to take place in sequence.
– Live site conditions require coordination with custodial staff to protect operational safety at all times.
SSH implemented a comprehensive risk and delivery plan, including detailed phasing, method statements, and temporary systems where needed. This ensured that each stage of the project was completed safely and efficiently without affecting the facility’s operations.
Outcome
The project was completed over a 20-week programme. Heating provision was maintained throughout, and the client now has a:
– Modern, energy-efficient boiler system, designed for long-term use
– Upgraded electrical infrastructure, improving safety and system control
– Larger, more accessible plant room, increasing serviceability and future capacity
The outcome was a seamless infrastructure transition with no service disruption, delivered in one of the most operationally sensitive environments in the UK.
Conclusion
This project demonstrates SSH Building’s ability to deliver complex M&E upgrades and structural works in secure, live environments, with full accountability, sequencing, and compliance management.
If your site requires infrastructure works that can’t afford to go wrong, we’re ready to take it off your plate.
📞 02392 839114
