When a client like ExxonMobil reaches out, you know the project is going to be significant—and likely, a fascinating challenge. They needed two robust canopies at their security checkpoint—one for inbound and one for outbound vehicle searches—at their exposed site just north of Edinburgh in Cowdenbeath.
The primary goal? To ensure their security team had the necessary protection from the elements, whether it was relentless wind and rain or intense UV exposure from the sun. This project perfectly illustrates the vital role a well-engineered canopy plays in maintaining operational efficiency and staff welfare.
Why a Canopy is Essential Protection
A canopy isn’t just a simple roof; it’s a critical piece of infrastructure, especially in an exposed location.
- Weather Shielding: For the security staff, the canopy provides an immediate shield from the worst of the Scottish weather. This allows them to perform detailed vehicle searches—a process that is essential for site security—without being drenched or battling high winds.
- UV Protection: Our canopies are equipped with a UV protective layer on the structured polycarbonate roofing. This is crucial for staff who may be working under the canopy for extended periods, providing long-term protection against sun exposure.
- Optimal Visibility (Day & Night): The structured polycarbonate roofing lets in natural light, maintaining excellent visibility during the day. For the 24-hour operation, we installed LED strip lighting to the rafters, controlled by a PIR sensor, ensuring the work area is perfectly illuminated only when needed.
The Challenge of Anchoring: Concrete Solutions
One of the biggest hurdles on a secure, hazardous site like ExxonMobil is the difficulty of getting a permit to dig. This process can take months, or even years, putting a massive dent in the project timeline.
Working closely with our structural engineers, we devised an innovative solution: concrete blocks.
- Large 300kg concrete blocks were placed at each of the canopy post positions.
- The canopy footplates were then securely bolted down to these blocks.
This was a brilliant workaround, but the site had one more trick up its sleeve: undulating ground. The area sloped both front-to-back and left-to-right within the canopy’s footprint. We overcame this by:
- Shimming the concrete blocks using a wet bed of concrete.
- Applying a finished, chamfered edge for a clean, stable foundation.
Built to Last: Canopy Specifications
These canopies were designed for maximum durability and utility:
- Dimensions: 5m wide x 9m long.
- Drive-Through Height: 3.2m at the lowest point.
- Structure: Robust steel frame with a galvanised finish for superior corrosion resistance.
- Roofing: Structured polycarbonate for durability and UV protection.
- Walling: Additional side protection using Corolite polycarbonate panels.
The entire installation, including craning the massive concrete blocks into position, was completed by the Kappion team in just 6 days. While high security and stringent safety protocols make sites like this (and the Magnox Nuclear site we installed at earlier in the year) complex, it’s where we do our best work.
We aren’t scared of complex, we thrive on it.
Does your operation need a tailor-made protection solution that can handle a challenging environment? Contact us today to discuss your project—no matter how difficult the site, we have the expertise to deliver.
Are you considering a carport or canopy for your property or premises?
Ready for a high-quality, bespoke carport designed and manufactured with engineering precision?
Contact Kappion today! We’re passionate about excellence and ready to help you create the perfect, long-lasting addition to your property.
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