The Challenge
Due to the lack of heating, Colefax & Fowler had two challenges to address at their premises in Wandsworth, London. Firstly, in the main warehouse working conditions were particularly uncomfortable during the winter months when the internal temperature could drop into low single figures. Staff were particularly susceptible to the cold when standing at the fabric-cutting benches and light-boxes for prolonged periods or when working in the ‘goods-in’ area located by the roller shutter doors.
Secondly, a new sprinkler system had been installed in the Fabric Store and the insurance company had stipulated that a frost protection system needed to be installed to prevent potential water damage to stock should the sprinkler system pipes freeze and burst. There was also the consideration that, at some point in the future, the Fabric Store may be used for operational activities and therefore require full heating.
The workers standing at the ‘cutting benches’ needed a form of heating which would warm them directly without wasting energy by attempting to heat the surrounding area. On the other hand, staff working in the ‘goods in/out’ areas needed warmth that would not escape every time the roller-doors were opened. Due to the configuration of the spaces involved, wall mounting the heaters was not an option and floor space had to be kept clear at all times.
Main warehouse working conditions were particularly uncomfortable during the winter months when the internal temperature could drop into low single figures.
A new sprinkler system had been installed in the Fabric Store and the insurance company had stipulated that a frost protection system needed to be installed to prevent potential water damage to stock should the sprinkler system pipes freeze and burst.
Due to the configuration of the spaces involved, wall mounting the heaters was not an option and floor space had to be kept clear at all times.
