Rapid delivery of secure, high-quality welfare facilities

Background

Smulders Projects UK Limited is the UK subsidiary of the internationally active Smulders, specialising in complex steel structures and offshore projects. At its production and storage facility in Wallsend, North-East of England, the business required additional, high-quality welfare facilities at short notice to support ongoing operations.

The requirement arose within a live industrial environment, where continuity of production, safety and workforce welfare were critical.

The Challenge

Smulders needed a complete set of welfare facilities, including break and canteen areas, washrooms and changing facilities. These spaces had to be robust, compliant and suitable for intensive daily use in an industrial setting.

The key challenge was identifying a supplier capable of delivering:

• - Consistent build quality
• - Flexible layouts tailored to site needs
• - Short, reliable lead times

Many potential providers could not meet all three criteria simultaneously. Traditional construction or major refurbishment was discounted early on, as it would have disrupted operations, extended programme timelines and introduced avoidable cost and delivery risk.

From a procurement perspective, additional requirements were equally important. The solution needed to be secure, resilient and economical to operate over time. The site is exposed to the demanding climate of North East England, with cold, damp winters and periods of higher summer temperatures. As a result, performance in terms of insulation, heating, cooling and durability was a key consideration, alongside low maintenance demands and predictable operating costs.

The Solution

ELA Container delivered a bespoke modular welfare solution, delivered quickly and supplied on a fully turnkey basis. By offering a single point of responsibility, ELA Container simplified procurement and reduced interface risk.

The solution combined welfare, sanitary and changing units into a coherent layout tailored to Smulders’ operational requirements. Space planning, internal fit-out, furniture and all technical services were delivered as part of one integrated package. Where required, the modular system also allows for future expansion and can be configured up to four storeys high, providing long-term flexibility.

Given the industrial context, enhanced security measures were incorporated from the outset. These included reinforced access points and protective grille elements, making the facility suitable for use on large sites with elevated security requirements.

To ensure year-round usability and workforce comfort, the units were fitted with high-performance insulation and modern split air-conditioning systems. Tilt-and-turn windows support natural ventilation, while supplementary air-handling technology maintains consistently good indoor air quality. Hard-wearing floor finishes, robust sanitary fittings and energy-efficient lighting were selected to minimise cleaning, maintenance and lifecycle costs – an important factor for long-term value.

The Result

The modular welfare complex was initially procured on a hire basis for twelve months, allowing Smulders to meet immediate needs without long-term commitment. Following positive operational experience and proven performance on site, the company elected to purchase the installation for permanent use – effectively validating the quality and durability of the solution.

When a later site relocation became necessary, ELA Container managed the entire process, including dismantling, transport and reinstallation, with minimal disruption to operations.

Smulders now benefits from a flexible, secure and cost-effective welfare facility that was delivered rapidly, reduced project risk and continues to support day-to-day operations as a permanent asset.