Prefabricated wiring completes the circuit

Darren Harper points out the pluggability of the system

“Whilst salaries is a significant saving, do not forget the additional costs of daily travel, housing and welfare of the site workers. Couple this to the rising visa costs and the real shortage of true skilled workers, and the argument against this system becomes very weak. We are all aware that the perceived cost of labour in the UAE is very low, but when we consider the actual productivity achieved, we can demonstrate that the actual rate is in line with most other European countries.

“When considering the commercial benefits, it is very easy to lose sight of the other advantages our solutions provide. Do not underestimate the safety, efficiency and programme benefits we offer, all of which contribute to a better building,” argues Harper.

“This market is historically based on ‘best price’ materials, which causes some confusion when proposing a prefabricated solution, as the cost of a pre-engineered, designed and manufactured Apex system cannot easily be compared to traditional conduit and cable costs. The costs only become comparable when you consider a fully-installed system

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Communicating such concepts is a new approach within the UAE, but in the downturn contractors are realising the effects and burdens and lack of efficiency that often prevails with over-supply of labour is affecting the out-turn cost of projects.

We must remember that the fundamental design of the electrical layout does not change, only the method of installation; therefore the same-size cables are connected to the specified accessories, light fittings and distribution boards as detailed in the original design.

“The system is designed to help everyone in the supply chain from client to consultant to MEP contractor by simplifying the electrical installation process. The system is not limited to mains-only applications, and can be used for control circuits, allowing the single installation to cater for all client needs.”

Harper adds that the Apex Wiring solution greatly reduces a contractor’s and client’s exposure to risk. “These can be due to various factors which are generally outside of the MEP contractor’s control, but normally come at a cost to their business. Remember that time is a risk; unproductive labour is a risk; the incorrect use of tools is a risk; an incorrect installation is a risk; and all of these lead to the biggest risk of all, which is cost. The Apex system reduces, and can indeed eliminate, all of these if deployed correctly.

Harper concludes: “Locally we have been demonstrating an average 20% cost-saving overall and installations some 70% quicker than traditional methods. The material costs are greater than that of traditional material, but the overall savings are significant and clear for all to see. It is often not until a client initiates and completes an installation that they appreciate and accept the scale of the direct and indirect benefits that can be realised.”

Labour benefits
First and second fix completed in one visit at worst case 15m / hour, allowing succeeding trades quicker access

• Pluggable connections between cables, DB and all spur units, AC fan coil’s, sockets, light fittings and other final connections means a fully integrated and pluggable system on site
• Third fix visit always takes place after room fit-out. The wiring solution comprises factory-manufactured accessories, therefore no dirty trades or tools are required in the furniture, soft furnishings, plastering and painting are completed, eliminating the possibility of any damage during this process.
• DB termination (third fix) completed in nor more than 1 hour
• General termination (third fix) is simply pushing two plugs together