High-Security Electrical Upgrade

Scottish Prison Service – Main Switchboard Replacement

High-security electrical upgrade for the Scottish Prison Service, including the replacement of main switchboards, backup power infrastructure and seamless integration with minimal disruption.

AC Gold was awarded a contract to upgrade the central switchboard at a high-security facility within the Scottish Prison Service. This critical project involved the removal of obsolete electrical apparatus and the installation of a modern, high-capacity LV (low voltage) distribution board. Where necessary, LV supply cables were also replaced to ensure the new switchboard met the facility’s current and future electrical demands. The project encompassed full design, installation, testing, commissioning, and the comprehensive handover of the Operation & Maintenance (O&M) manual and completion pack.

Expertise in High-Security Electrical Installations

AC Gold has extensive experience working in high-security environments, including live, operational sites for local authorities and public sector clients. Our well established procedures ensure that work is conducted safely, efficiently, and with minimal disruption to ongoing prison operations. With rigorous planning and strict adherence to security protocols, our team guarantees the highest level of safety for staff, contractors and inmates.

Between 2017 and 2018, AC Gold was responsible for replacing multiple main switchboards for the Scottish Prison Service. Each installation followed a standardised process but required bespoke adaptations to accommodate site-specific requirements.

As part of the project, AC Gold also upgraded the facility’s backup power infrastructure. A 400kVA standby generator was installed and integrated with the new main switchboard layout. Temporary power solutions were provided throughout the transition to eliminate any risk of power loss during changeovers.

Project Scope & Employer Requirements

To successfully deliver the switchboard replacement, AC Gold followed a structured approach, including:

Conducting a detailed electrical survey to assess the existing installation and design a system that met both site and employer specifications.
Developing a full system design and detailed programme of works in coordination with Scottish Prison Service (SPS) representatives to schedule planned shutdowns with minimal operational impact.
Managing and monitoring all supplier involvement to ensure programme timescales were met.
Collaborating with switch panel manufacturers to guarantee compliance with design specifications and security requirements.
Coordinating a controlled shutdown and removal of outdated switchgear, ensuring environmentally compliant disposal.
Overseeing the safe delivery and precise placement of the new switch panel within the high-security facility.
Rewiring all steel wire armoured (SWA) sub-main supply cables to fuse boards located throughout the facility.
Terminating new mains supply connections and integrating SWA cables into the newly installed switch panel.
Securely sealing the old links centre supply cable.
Conducting full electrical testing and commissioning in compliance with BS 7671:2018 wiring regulations.
Providing complete electrical certification and test results for each circuit.
Delivering a fully documented Operation & Maintenance Manual to support future maintenance and compliance requirements.

Compliance with CDM Regulations 2015

The switchboard replacement projects were fully designed and executed in strict accordance with CDM Regulations 2015. AC Gold ensured seamless project delivery by meticulously planning each phase, minimising variations, and obtaining necessary approvals before any work commenced. A Construction Phase Plan was developed and shared with all involved parties, including subcontractors, ensuring full compliance with health and safety regulations.

Planning & Regulatory Approvals

AC Gold adhered to all required planning and approval processes, ensuring full transparency and regulatory compliance. Key documentation, including risk assessments, asbestos surveys, and method statements was submitted for client review before work began. Several pre construction meetings were held to finalise operational plans, and all documents were continuously reviewed and updated as the project progressed.

Through meticulous planning, expert coordination, and technical excellence, AC Gold successfully delivered a secure, compliant, and future-proof electrical infrastructure upgrade for the Scottish Prison Service.

Project Description