Delivering Night-Time Upgrades Without Day-Time Disruption
As part of a large-scale government initiative, GI Construction Solutions was engaged by MITIE Projects (Cardiff) to carry out specialist works across multiple Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) office sites. The brief required a delicate balance of heightened security upgrades and passive fire compliance, all delivered without disrupting daily public operations.
Scope of Work
The primary objective of the project was to upgrade the DWP’s access and security infrastructure, along with implementing modern passive fire protection to meet the latest safety regulations. Our team was tasked with:
- Surveying and assessing multiple DWP sites in collaboration with MITIE and G4S security specialists
- Replacing existing internal timber doors with bespoke doors designed to accommodate new, high-security locking systems
- Executing passive fire installations on new service routes that penetrated existing fire-rated walls and ceilings
- Reinstating ceiling systems upon completion of fireproofing to ensure offices were operational by the next business day
Challenges & Our Approach
Night-Time Working Windows
To prevent any disruption to public services, all work had to be completed overnight. Our team operated on a tight schedule, executing tasks quickly and cleanly to restore full office function before morning.
Custom Joinery Requirements
Each DWP location had different architectural constraints, requiring a wide range of custom-sized timber doors. We procured, delivered, and installed each set according to precise specifications—on a rolling, site-by-site basis.
Fire Compliance Within Existing Infrastructure
Installing new cabling and service routes meant penetrating fire-rated compartments. We ensured all penetrations were sealed using BRE-approved fire-stopping systems, reinstating the fire integrity of each affected area to full compliance.
Results
Despite the complexity of coordinating across multiple sites under compressed timeframes, the project was delivered:
- On schedule, with zero reported disruptions to DWP services
- To full fire safety compliance, in accordance with national regulations and third-party certification
- With minimal site impact, preserving the DWP’s operational continuity while upgrading its infrastructure
Client Feedback
Both MITIE and the DWP facilities teams praised GI Construction’s professionalism, reliability, and collaborative approach throughout the project, noting the seamless integration of work and the proactive communication provided by our site teams.
Need expert help on a high-security or compliance-driven project?
GI Construction Solutions has the experience, certifications, and logistical know-how to deliver safe, effective upgrades in even the most demanding environments.
