Evertaut Entrusted with Legacy: Usher Hall Case Study
Project Overview
Client: The City of Edinburgh Council
Project Manager: Christopher Smalley
Principal Contractor: Evertaut Ltd
Project Duration: 15th July 2024 – 28th July 2024
Location: Usher Hall, Edinburgh
Introduction
Evertaut Ltd was commissioned by The City of Edinburgh Council to act as Principal Contractor in the refurbishment of seating in the Grand Circle of Usher Hall. The project involved removing existing seating and installing 427 new bespoke Orion chairs. The goal was to complete the project within two weeks, ensuring minimal disruption to the operational building and achieving high standards of safety and quality.
Evertaut completed the installation in just 6 working days, scaling our efforts to meet the busy schedule of an incredibly popular venue – central to the entertainment industry in Scotland.
Planning, Preparation & Process
The project planning phase, which began on 15th April 2024, included:
- Site Visits & Surveys: Conducted on 14th May 2024 to gather precise measurements and understand site-specific challenges.
- Layout Drawing & Sample Revisions: Completed by 24th May 2024, with sample reviews and approvals ensuring the final design met the Client’s expectations.
- Material Procurement: All materials were sourced and inspected by 21st June 2024, ensuring they met Evertaut’s stringent quality management and ISO 9001:2015 accreditation standards.
Manufacturing Phase:
The new bespoke Orion auditorium seating was manufactured at Evertaut’s Lancashire factory, adhering to ISO 9001 & 14001 standards. The manufacturing process, completed by 11th July 2024, ensured all chairs were produced to the highest quality.
Installation Phase:
The on-site installation began on 15th July 2024. The following key steps were undertaken:
- Site Setup: The site was secured, and necessary safety measures were implemented. All personnel were inducted and provided with appropriate PPE.
- Removal of Old Seating: The existing seats were removed and disposed of in designated skips on site.
- Installation of New Seating: The new chairs were installed systematically, ensuring proper alignment and secure fittings. This process was overseen by experienced site supervisors and the Evertaut Design Team.
- Testing & Commissioning: Conducted on 22nd July 2024, ensuring all installations met the required standards. The final sign-off was completed in the same week with re and the Evertaut team present.
Health and Safety
Throughout the project, Evertaut Ltd maintained a strong focus on health and safety:
- Zero Accidents: No reportable accidents or dangerous occurrences were recorded.
- Safety Training: All workers received comprehensive safety training, including working at heights, which was crucial for the Grand Circle front rows.
- Emergency Preparedness: Emergency procedures were well-defined, and regular drills ensured all personnel were prepared for any eventuality.
Environmental Management
- Evertaut Ltd ensured compliance with environmental regulations:
- Waste Management: Effective waste management strategies were employed, minimising the environmental impact.
- Noise & Dust Control: Measures were taken to control noise and dust, ensuring minimal disruption to the Usher Hall’s operations and surrounding areas.
Communication and Coordination
Regular updates and clear communication channels were maintained with the Client, ensuring any issues were promptly addressed. This proactive approach facilitated smooth project execution and timely completion.
Commenting on the project, Álvaro Yáñez, Operations Manager at Usher Hall, shared:
“Our experience with Evertaut for the replacement of the Grand Circle seats at Usher Hall was nothing short of exceptional. From start to finish, the team demonstrated their commitment to excellence. They are active listeners who truly understood our needs and delivered beyond our expectations. Their hardworking nature ensured the project was completed well within the timescale. The end product is fantastic, providing both comfort and aesthetic appeal to our patrons. We are excited to work with Evertaut again next year for the Upper Circle level replacement.”
Usher Hall auditorium seating before and after.
Reflecting on the project, Christopher Smalley, Director of Evertaut, remarked:
“Successful manufacture and installation of seating is what Evertaut has done for decades, but feedback like the comments received from the venue will never get old. Our role as Principal Contractor for the project was pivotal and we are delighted that our stringent health and safety measures, fostered a safe environment whilst delivering a product visitors love. We look forward to working with Usher Hall and The City of Edinburgh Council on Phase 2 of this excellent project.”
Conclusion
The Usher Hall seating refurbishment project was successfully completed on time, within budget, and to the highest standards of quality and safety. The new bespoke Orion chairs not only enhanced the aesthetics and comfort of the venue but also demonstrated Evertaut Ltd’s commitment to excellence in project management and execution.
The project’s success is attributed to meticulous planning, effective communication, rigorous safety measures, and the dedication of the entire Evertaut team. The City of Edinburgh Council’s John Bennett expressed total satisfaction with the outcome, awarding Evertaut top marks for Product, Service and Customer Satisfaction.
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