Somerset-based manufacturer of custom-made cabinets, JoBird & Co Ltd, is looking to the future by getting Hinkley-ready with the support of the Hinkley Supply Chain Team.
The company is located in Highbridge, less than 20 miles by road from the Hinkley Point C (HPC) new nuclear power station. It produces durable and reliable cabinets largely constructed of composite materials using approved gelcoats, glass matting, and resins to protect contents from the elements.
Most have Lloyds and ABS approvals with an excellent IP rating of 56 and can be insulated or vented for use in extreme temperatures.
With many successful designs accredited to them and an international client base, supplying fire safety related equipment worldwide, JoBird bosses felt they were well-placed to support the requirements of a large construction project like HPC, so began looking at ways to be ready when supply opportunities arose.
Initially, JoBird attended a Hinkley Supply Chain Team funded workshop, which was designed to help companies understand the specific demands of working on the HPC project.
The supply chain team then organised an on-site meeting to offer JoBird more targeted advice and recommendations tailored to the individual needs of the company.
Around this time Jo Bird secured early orders to support the HPC project and, as a result, decided to focus on ensuring the company was equipped for future HPC opportunities, in particular, by learning about supplying the nuclear industry.
The company already has extensive experience in the oil and offshore wind sectors.
Jo Bird recently designed and supplied fire-fighting lockers to A&P Falmouth for the Royal Fleet Auxiliary, replacing those supplied by the ship builder which were deemed not fit for purpose.
The custom-made cabinets, designed in close collaboration with A&P engineers, have A&S roller shutter doors to save valuable space on board and stainless-steel lockable draw systems inside. A&P were so impressed with the finished product, NATO codes have now been created for the design to ensure they can be supplied to future MOD vessels.
Nick Atkins, Marketing Manager, JoBird & Co Ltd, said: “The Hinkley Supply Chain Team HPC Supplier Induction covered different key nuclear factors, from the safety culture adopted by the nuclear industry to important considerations for suppliers entering into HPC specific nuclear contracts.
“I feel so much more informed about the factors of nuclear excellence important to EDF Energy and potential HPC customers after this training, which will help me when preparing future bids.”
