Cardiff University

Cardiff University Rates Johnsons Lab Logistics A Grade

The Situation

The Cardiff Catalysis Institute (CCI) within the School of Chemistry at Cardiff University was created in 2008 with an initial investment from the University of £2.8M. Since then, it’s developed its areas of expertise to include the fields of photocatalysis, renewable fuel synthesis, and exhaust after-treatment, while maintaining a global reputation in catalyst design.

It was established to:

• improve the understanding of catalysis;
• work with industry to develop new catalytic processes;
• promote the use of catalysis as a sustainable 21st century technology.

For the ongoing development of the facility, managers recognised the need to move it to the Translational Research Hub (TRH) – a state-of-the-art facility bringing industry and scientists together to solve complex global challenges.

This would involve the relocation of:

• Hazardous chemicals, substances, and materials;
• Instruments and associated equipment;
• Highly-complex and specialist tools including oil-based pumps, probe stations, glass bell jars, optical tables, glove boxes, hot plates, ovens, fridges, and freezers;
• Office furniture;
• Departmental staff.

The Solution

Johnsons Lab Logistics provided a bespoke project management solution based around our core processes of DEFINE, DESIGN, DELIVER.

We began by engaging with key stakeholders to clearly define the project requirements, before designing the main programme which involved some enabling works to create swing space.

As the project involved the transfer of hazardous chemicals, substances, and materials, we allocated a full-time Dangerous Goods Safety Adviser (DGSA) who worked closely with laboratory assistants and specialists to ensure robust risk assessments and methods statements were in place and we could move the chemicals in line with ADR regulations.

The Outcome

The relocation project was completed on time and to budget, with minimum disruption to day-to-day staff workload and activities.

Client Quote

A spokesperson from Cardiff University said:

“With several departments relocating, the main of the main aim of the project was to build a programme which ensured continued functionality of all works, limiting any downtime. For this, we required a highly-experienced and specialist to undertake the end-to-end relocation.”

“We were constantly impressed with the team’s dedication and professionalism, which meant the entire project was manged efficiently from start to finish.”