Based in the heart of the New Forest National Park in Hampshire are Brockenhurst College, a provider of higher education courses and placements from sixth-form upwards. Boasting academic excellence, the college offer a range of apprenticeships in a variety of sectors, including the specialism of Marine Engineering.
Location wise it’s idyllic, close to the coast, offering a number of exciting opportunities for students looking to move into the marine industry.
From luxury powerboats to narrowboats the marine industry encompasses a wide range of professions dealing with watercraft, opening the door to many local job opportunities.
After some extensive research Brockenhurst College contacted Fercell to design a ventilation system within their purpose-built workshop to provide a safe working environment for their marine students to be able to master the skills needed to test marine engines.
With a growing demand for specialist knowledge and trained professionals in the marine sector, it was vital that Fercell could come up a solution to meet the clients requirements.
Safety first
Over the past few decades safety regulations have become more stringent, making it more important than ever to invest in training. The practical element of marine courses offered at Brockenhurst College allows students to learn vital skills in a structured, safe environment.
Testing a marine engine could be carried out for a number of reasons; to provide a diagnostic, to service the engine or to repair an element. Marine engines when stagnant present a lower risk to workers, however once testing is resumed you have got marine diesel fumes to contend with.
Even just a few moments of exposure to diesel fumes presents a risk to your health, with the potential to cause irritation to your respiratory tract. Lengthy exposure can cause more irreversible damage.
UK law requires employers to consider the risk of health related problems. Diesel fume is covered under COSHH (Control of Substances Hazardous to Heath) regulations. It is the responsibility of the employer to assess the risk to anyone in the vicinity as a result of exposure to any dust or fumes, and to put in place appropriate measures to reduce any risks of exposure.
To counteract any fumes produced during the testing process for marine engines it was vital that Fercell proposed a suitable ventilation solution. With every customers requirements being different and the importance of implementing the most effective solution, Fercell firstly carried out a site visit. The visit ensured an initial assessment was carried out and a solution was drawn up and proposed to the client using exact details. By putting the correct control measures in place, a safe working and learning environment is created.
Fulfilling the brief
Situated in a purpose-built facility, it was vital that the ventilation solution encompassed fume and dust capture for multiple workstations, with the objective to carry out machines testing on marine equipment simultaneously.
By installing a comprehensive system of ducting throughout the workshop area, numerous extraction fans and hoods could be placed in close proximity, allowing for a practical class sessions to take place. The fume cap on the outside ducting allows any fume to be exhausted into the atmosphere, with any water running back into the sump to be reused.
For Brockenhurst College multiple extraction hoods connected via flexible ducting was an ideal solution, perfect for capturing fumes and offering an element of flexibility. The hood size was specified to fit the brief, without being too large and taking up valuable space. The size of hoods can be varied, in this case an identical station was created for each base with the option to be easily re-positioned to accommodate the user.
The solution utilises energy saving MEF fans, which feature closed backward curving, self-cleaning impellers and is designed for mixed airflows up to 17.000m³/h. Made out of galvanised steel it is ideal for an outdoor climate, designed for optimum corrosion resistance.
Finishing touches
Following the installation of the equipment, Fercell’s trained engineer carried out LEV testing and operator training. Fercell has the capability of delivering the whole service package, including supply, installation, training and servicing.
When it comes to ventilation equipment, it is important to remember a LEV test should be conducted at least every 14 months to ensure that workers are protected by properly functioning fume ventilation systems. This will not only ensure the college are following COSHH regulations, but they are operating a safe learning environment.
Fercell has over 47 years’ experience in successfully delivering industrial ventilation equipment and complete industrial recycling and size reduction systems. With no one customer the same Fercell designs each solution to meet the customers exact requirements.
