Client Background
Nestle Purina, a revered name in the pet care industry for over 90 years, is synonymous with quality pet food and an unwavering commitment to pet welfare. Following its acquisition of Ralston Purina in December 2001, Nestle has significantly expanded Purina's global footprint, ensuring pets and pet owners worldwide benefit from their premium products.
Facility Description
The project took place in Jefferson, Wisconsin, at one of Nestle Purina's facilities dedicated to the production of cat food. This facility is a part of Nestle Purina's extensive network, which prioritizes the health and safety of pets through the quality of its products. The Jefferson facility is specifically designed for the production and quality assurance of pet food, ensuring each product meets Purina's high standards.
Requested Maintenance
The facility faced significant challenges with its flooring system in the meat table area. The existing floor exhibited cracks and standing water issues, which not only compromised the facility's hygiene by testing positive for listeria but also presented a safety risk. To address these concerns, Nestle Purina sought a comprehensive solution that would eliminate these hazards and ensure the facility's operations could continue without interruption.
Decision Driver and Timing
The critical drivers for this project were the urgent need to address the health and safety concerns posed by the cracked flooring and standing water, and the limited window of opportunity during a three-day shutdown. With other contractors working concurrently on equipment within the same area, the project required meticulous planning and execution to minimize downtime and disruption to the facility's operations.
Scope of Work
The project entailed two major components:
- Removal and reinstallation of a 1/4" urethane cement floor in the meat table area, covering approximately 800 sq. ft. This new flooring system was designed to enhance durability and resist the harsh conditions of the production environment
- Addressing the peeling paint above the gravy coater, which involved scraping down loose materials and applying a fresh coat of commercial-grade paint suitable for food and beverage facilities
Notable Details
Rapid Execution within Tight Deadlines
The entire project was completed within the constraints of a three-day facility shutdown, showcasing the team's ability to work efficiently and effectively under pressure, ensuring minimal disruption to the facility's operations.
Collaborative Effort with Other Contractors
The unique challenge of working alongside other contractors required exceptional coordination and communication to ensure the safety and efficiency of all parties involved, demonstrating the team's adaptability and professionalism.
Solutions to Standing Water and Hygiene Issues
By installing a new flooring system that pitched towards the drain, the standing water issue was resolved, significantly reducing the risk of listeria contamination. This not only improved the facility's hygiene but also enhanced the overall safety for employees.
Client Satisfaction
Nestle Purina's decision to entrust this critical project to our team was driven by our proven expertise in handling complex industrial and commercial upgrades. The successful completion of the project within the stipulated timeframe, coupled with the resolution of significant safety and hygiene issues, reinforced Nestle Purina's confidence in our capabilities. This project not only addressed the immediate concerns but also contributed to Nestle Purina's ongoing commitment to maintaining the highest standards of quality and safety in their facilities.