Carman Contracting has secured its largest project to date with long-standing client Equans for a significant lighting installation at large government building. On site from October 2024, the contract will run until March 2025 and involves the design, procurement and installation of lighting solutions throughout the building.

Our scope of work is extensive and includes replacing the entire building’s lighting system with modern, energy-efficient LED fittings from Dexter. This forms part of a larger energy-saving initiative which involves phasing out the remaining fluorescent tubes in the courthouse.

Working in collaboration with lighting design specialists, Carman will ensure that the new lighting meets the building’s specific needs. A bespoke arrangement is required for the courtroom, where the high ceilings of around 8 metres demand careful design to achieve the correct Lux levels for the space. A DALI (Digital Addressable Lighting Interface) will be installed to digitally control and monitor the lighting throughout the building, providing valuable information about the system’s performance and efficiency.

An important part of the project is the installation of custodial light fittings, provided by Light Years Ahead. These are anti-ligature fixtures that prevent the potential of abuse or self-harm, ensuring the safety of individuals in the high-risk environment.

In addition to lighting, Carman is responsible for ceiling maintenance, replacing outdated metal tiles with mineral fibre tiles in certain areas of the courthouse. We will also carry out firestopping measures to ensure that any penetrations made for the new lighting systems are properly sealed to maintain fire safety.

Given the sensitive nature of the courthouse, Carman’s work will take place outside court hours, at night and during weekends, to minimise disruption to court operations. A core team will work during the week, supplemented by a larger team at weekends.

“We have worked with Equans before on other large-scale crown court buildings, primarily handling the installation work,” said James Selwood, Director, Carman Contracting. “This contract, involving 2,000 light fittings, is our largest so far with Equans. It’s a significant step up for us as we’re now responsible for the entire process – from lighting design through to procurement and installation.”