Over the past 28 years, DECO has focused on optimizing coating processes, job safety, and convenience for customers. One of the ways we have been able to outshine our competition is due to our Shop Coating facilities and protocols. We get things done faster, more beautiful, and as it turns out, much safer amid a highly contagious flu pandemic. Here’s how and why…
We understand that necessity is the mother of invention. In DECO’s case, we have heavily promoted industrial shop coatings because of efficiency, reducing job site traffic, and early schedule delivery. Now necessity to distance the worker has forced construction to change field operations to facilitate worker safety through social distancing. DECO has the process and facility in place to receive, process, and deliver finished infrastructure. The way in which business is done will improve and be better as we learn from the difficulties and crisis of COVID-19. Movement to shop applications has been slow to catch on; however, there is a more important reason to move into a different way of thinking and doing things.
DECO shop operations keep workers at a safe distance that comply with COVID-19 recommendations. We are encouraging vendors to utilize off site coating/painting applications with field touch-up to minimize worksite exposure. (At the moment, any project that can be shop applied is being directed off the job site into DECO shop operations to reduce and minimize COVID-19 exposure.) DECO understands the value of shop applications for industrial painting because it is performed in a controlled environment.
Collective safety meetings which include all trades are standard protocol at job sites. Safety meeting attendance is mandatory which means a large group is gathered. Safety meetings are very important to address job site specific issues, changes in job site work areas, and overall continued compliance. Reducing job site workforce reduces safety job site safety risks as well as those in attendance.
At DECO we manage our safety meetings with social distancing without sacrificing vital safety measures to insure safety for all.
Janet South – President Deco Coatings
Structure components being prepared and coated are done in a controlled environment which is best value to the customer. Accessibility to prepare and coat the component is at a hands-on level. Rather than stretching around inconstant lighting; off lifts, boom, ladders; working on an active worksite around other trades in the same space. Shop application is far better when it is an option. There will always be applications that MUST be done in the field. DECO services those contracts, too.
Shop coatings are preferred over field when the option is available.
Inspection is easier and efficient.
- It gets done with a keen eye rather than shadowy lighting, proper preparation, and application.
- Field application is difficult for applicators and inspectors that have difficulty or cannot see the backside of surfaces.
- Not only do the applicators inspect their work at a higher level, but DECO shop operations inspect the work when complete. This means more than mere climate control; this means more control of job safety and overall health.
Shop Coating Process
To demonstrate how the process works and how we are able to maintain social distancing in our shop coating practices I am showing you snapshots from our facility for a current infrastructure coatings project:
STEP 2: UNLOAD STEEL
STEP 3: BLAST STEEL
STEP 4: CLIMATE CONTROLLED FACILITY PAINT COATING PROCESS
STEP 5: NEXT COATING
STEP 7: FINAL COATING AND DRYING PROCESS IN CLIMATE CONTROLLED FACILITIES ON DECO COATINGS CAMPUS
FINAL STEP: LOADING COATED PHARMACEUTICAL STEEL ONTO TRUCK TO BE TRANSPORTED BACK TO PHARMACEUTICAL PLANT
DECO continues to be thought leaders and innovators for our industry. As we exit this time of Covid19 quarantine and back into life returning to normal, DECO will continue to maintain the highest hygiene and safety practices, as we prepare to always serve in the best interest of the public, our workforce, and our customers.