Many companies have had to make significant cutbacks meaning that investment funds for new facilities are scarce or non-existent. But in safety-critical environments there is a need to ensure that systems and controls are maintained at maximum operating efficiency. As a result, many organisations are looking at how they can extend the life of their existing assets and make their operations leaner.
To tackle this, control room company CCD launched ‘Control Room Life Stretch’ a consultancy to show organisations how to extend the life span of their control centres by spending only where there is real value. CCD undertakes a fixed-cost audit to identify where the weaknesses and risks lie and where investment is required or savings can be made. It then makes recommendations based on cost/benefit.
David Watts, CCD’s Managing Director says: "Economic realities cannot impact on safety or operating efficiency in control rooms, but many organisations have had to put their investment plans on hold in the short-term. With ‘Life stretch’ we aim to help those organisations which need to increase the lifespan of mission critical environments like control centres. We have developed the product following demand from existing clients who need to prevent system obsolescence, reduce the risk of operator error and ensure their facility can cope with increasing demands or changes in the external world. The process can help reduce ongoing costs such as maintenance as well as improve overall performance."
After an audit by a CCD consultant, the consultancy produces a ‘Life Stretch Plan’ which illustrates options, associated costs and resources required. CCD Human Factor’s clients include the Medical Research Council, ITER, London Underground, Transport for London, BNFL, Home Office, DLR, Texaco, RailCorp, Highways Agency.
