Today's Inspection, The Good, the Bad and the Ugly

As you know today was our state inspection for the renovation project and the bad news is that we do not have occupancy yet, the good news is that we are closer.  I think it is important to share some information about the inspection and discuss why we aren't there yet.

Since this is a state funded project a state inspection is required to review the work of designers, contractors and sub-contractors all in the name of life safety and health.  In other words, this review is meant to ensure that all of the work done has been completed to the best of everyone's ability in order to keep us safe and protected in the event of an emergency.  A punch list of issues has been created, based on today's review and I have to admit it is all items that we would want addressed for our future needs.  Much of it is not readily visible or obvious but is important for our protect.  Some examples of activity today include:

This is a test of the water flow system that releases water from the sprinkler system if activated.  This is important for protecting people and materials in the event of discharge from long term damage.

Smoke test for alarm activiation

This is a review of the new electrical system and panels, install specifically for the third floor in order to give us greater electrical capacity and options.

This is inspecting pipes and fire devices so that they function properly and as expected in the event of an emergency.

Inspecting Sprinkler System and Shut-off

This was today's ugly, the smoke machine that was responsible for the early morning evacuation.  It redeemed itself later by performing for the intended smoke test to help us know the system was working properly.

Due to the nature of some continued work that needs to be completed, we did not achieve occupancy today but took another step closer.  A follow up review is expect within the next two weeks and then we can proceed from there.  Please be patience, but this will ensure that we have a quality product.
mc

Renovation Status

I wanted to update you on the status of our project, with the noisy and dusty part done it is hard to realize that work is still being done, but I can assure your that it is.  The aforementioned punch list is getting near completion, there are several important items to still address before the inspection process is started.  But some finishing touches are going up:

And there is even action at the restrooms:

Meanwhile we are making local adjustments where we can, such as the second floor conference room is finished off and larger..............

Next Saturday we are expecting to do the building power shut down test, early before we open.  This means the power to the building will be shut down in order to test fire alarms and batteries.  Please do not plan for any other activities on this morning.  This activity should be completed by 9:30 AM.

Once this is done and passes, the expectation is that the inspection can be scheduled.  Because this is still later than we anticipated we are expecting to not have total access to space in Hodges until later in the month.  Please continue to seek alternative venues as needed. 

Have a great holiday weekend and I'll update more as we progress closer to the end.
mc