VMU Gas Detection System

THE OPPORTUNITY

This project was the third gas detection system installation carried out by KBS for Waitrose & Partners in early 2021, at their Vehicle Management Units (VMU) across the Southwest and Midlands.
By far the largest of the VMU’s, covering over 100,000 sq ft of service depot, this contract was awarded to KBS by main contractor Woodward & Co, following a competitive tendering process and no doubt took into account the successful completion of the projects at Brinkley and Northampton.

The requirement for the new system arose from Waitrose’s decision to convert all their trucks from diesel to methane, in line with their energy-efficiency and environmental objectives. The detection system was necessary due to the flammable and explosive properties of methane and therefore the effectiveness and reliability of the system was paramount. KBS were responsible for the electrical design and installation from a specification produced by Synergy Building Services.

KBS were responsible for the electrical design and installation from a specification produced by Synergy Building Services.

THE DELIVERY

The detection system consists of a number of VESDA control panels, which are continually monitoring for methane. Once methane has been detected a signal is sent to a new BMS control panel, which in turn will shut down the building’s electrical panels and activate a series of extractor fans.

As you might expect given the nature of the work and site,  KBS faced a number of challenges. This was an active depot and with a pause in operations not feasible, our electricians were required to operate alongside and above active MOT bays, with all the obstacles and air quality issues this entailed. Furthermore, KBS quickly identified that the two extractor fans specified in the plans by the contractor responsible for that design aspect, were insufficient for the level of gas emissions. KBS therefore recommended and adapted the programme of works to include four fans.

Furthermore, KBS quickly identified that the two extractor fans specified in the plans by the contractor responsible for that design aspect, were insufficient for the level of gas emissions. KBS therefore recommended and adapted the programme of works to include four fans.

THE OUTCOME

Despite the challenges faced by the team both in terms of working conditions and the additional extraction requirement, the project was completed on time, within budget and with no impact whatsoever on workshop activities.

KBS takes great pride in how its operatives adapted to these new challenges, showing great flexibility and problem-solving skills on site, and we look forward to working with Waitrose & Partners on future projects of this kind.