Blast Resistant Control Building | England
CLIENT: INEOS
The Challenge
Our client operates an asset classified under top-tier COMAH regulations and therefore must manage the risks associated with the transport and processing of high hazard materials.
IKM’s approach to the project was risk-based, ensuring we explored all options focussing on coordination of safety, compliance, and best-in-class design standards.
The design requirements for an improved control building facilities presented several key challenges:
- The existing control building facilities would have required extensive strengthening due to the proximity to live processing facilities.
- Carrying out the scope required while both the building and asset remained operational would have posed unacceptable risks.
The Solution
IKM were able to undertake a sensitivity analysis to significantly reduce the required design case hazards from the client’s original expectations.
IKM designed and commissioned Ground Investigation (GI) works, our civils team then developed retaining wall solutions, roads, drainage and two carparks to enable the maximum use of the limited ground available.
Our Fire Engineer developed a thermal model to validate the use of standard off the shelf insulation products to allow the development of an economically viable shelter-in-place philosophy. Our Structural Engineering team developed the blast resistant modular structure and provided client assurance during offsite fabrication and lifting design.
Our architectural and MEP teams developed the layout, functionality and appearance to meet the multiple demands of the project.
IKM supported the project from concept to site completion, providing construction supervision, attending Factory Acceptance Testing, Site Acceptance Testing and recently the grand (virtual) opening ceremony.
