Speedy

Support for Major Projects. Speedy Solution for Europe's Biggest Chemical Plant Shutdown.

In 2008, the Olefins 6 unit at the Wilton International Manufacturing Site near Middlesbrough underwent a three-month £65 million overhaul, undergoing extensive maintenance work and a full safety inspection. The plant produces ethylene and propylene, used to make a wide range of everyday household products. The plant closed for the work, ending a record continuous six-year long production run. The shutdown project was the biggest of its kind in Europe and required 3,000 additional contractors as well the plant's regular workforce.

Speedy was contracted by AMEC plc. The firm was selected to carry out the shutdown by the plant's owner, the Saudi Basic Industries Corporation (SABIC).

The Challenge

The scale and complexity of the project demanded a very large amount of plant and equipment. To minimise the logistical challenge, AMEC was looking for a single supplier to provide the necessary hire support. Also, because highly flammable gas is used in the process at the plant, the project presented unique challenges.

The Solution

Speedy was the sole supplier of plant and equipment for the operation. The equipment provided included forklift trucks, compressors, generators, tools, manual handling aids, a swipe card clocking system, temporary lighting & electrics, pressure testing equipment and hydraulic tooling. A dedicated team of six Speedy employees were on site throughout the project, working alongside AMEC's senior shutdown co-ordinator. Safety equipment including gas detection were also provided to minimise any risk to contractors. To help the operation run smoothly, Speedy also supplied a radio system that allowed communication for 550 of the engineers on site. The volume of communication traffic and the area of coverage meant that four repeater antennae were needed.