Jetty Monitoring Building Refurbishment: RIBA Stages 1-6

The client contacted the Arthian team to assist with jetty monitoring refurbishment site at a significant port. However, the existing facility, constructed in 2006, faced significant operational, welfare, and safety issues: 

• Operational Inefficiencies: Poor internal layout, restricted access, and limited visibility of loading arms and firewater monitors hindered safe and efficient operations. 

• Welfare Shortcomings: Minimal amenities and inadequate HVAC systems led to uncomfortable conditions and pest problems. 

• Safety Risks at a COMAH Tier 1 Site: The building lacked a gas-tight envelope, blast-rated doors and windows, and effective pressurisation. Combustible cladding posed a fire hazard, and ATEX compliance was compromised. 

• Structural Challenges: Existing envelope and steelwork required strengthening to withstand blast loads. 

• Site Constraints: Works had to be undertaken on an operational jetty over water, with restricted space for construction access and interaction with live process systems. 

• Documentation Issues: As-built drawings did not match actual conditions, complicating design and planning.
   

These shortcomings impacted day-to-day functionality and posed serious risks in emergency scenarios. 

Arthian delivered a comprehensive, multi-disciplinary refurbishment design to transform the site into a safe, efficient, and modern control centre, working alongside trusted partners Wellwood Leslie (Architecture) and Hoare Lea (Building Services).

Key elements of the solution included: 

• Safety and Compliance:  

• • Blast-resistant, fire-resistant, and gas-tight building envelope with non-combustible cladding. 

• • Upgraded blast-rated doors and windows, plus a secondary escape route with airlock for shelter-in-place compliance. 

• • Structural strengthening of primary and secondary steelwork to resist external blast pressures (up to 70 mbar) and thermal hazards (25 kW/m² for 30 minutes). 

• Mechanical & Electrical Upgrades:  

• • New HVAC system maintaining +50Pa positive pressurisation under normal operation, with safe emergency shutdown. 

• • Blast, fire, and gas dampers fitted to all service penetrations. 

• • Enhanced electrical systems with ATEX Zone 2-rated external equipment for compliance and durability. 

• Operational & Welfare Improvements:  

• • Reconfigured control room layout for improved ergonomics and visibility of jetty operations. 

• • Upgraded welfare facilities, including WC and amenities, plus modern HVAC and lighting for comfort. 

• Structural & Architectural Enhancements:  

• • Specification and coordination of blast-resistant and gas-tight cladding, doors, and windows. 

• • Design of new cantilevered steel walkway supported from the jetty structure. 

• • Structural assessments to verify jetty suitability for blast loads and construction activities. 

• Design Standards & Longevity:  

• • Delivered to RIBA Stage 4, aligned with Eurocodes, British Standards, and Energy Institute guidelines. 

• • Materials and finishes specified for a 30-year design life in harsh marine conditions. 

 Arthian also provided a costed option study at project inception, supported CDM Principal Designer duties, and continues to provide construction stage supervision. 

The Result:
A robust, visually impressive jetty control centre that enhances safety, improves operator experience, and meets stringent regulatory standards.