Portable accommodation modules have long service lives, but they will all start to wear eventually. Regular maintenance can help extend their operational life, but there will be a time when maintenance alone can no longer address the issues that arise. There are also situations where the unit is no longer needed for its original purpose, and a different type of module or layout is more suitable. Then, a decision must be made to replace the unit with a new one or refurbish it to return it to a new state.

New units would always be welcome, but they often are not the best option in terms of cost or operation for locations with existing units. Armoda offers refurbishment services that can cost-effectively transform old portable accommodation modules into new ones, allowing them to support projects for years to come. While each project has its own unique needs, at Armoda, we have seen that there are common types of refurbishment work that our customers require. We’ll explore the types of refurbishments for portable accommodation modules and highlight the most common refurbishment work completed.

How Does PAM Refurbishment Work?

Refurbishment of portable accommodation modules usually begins with a site survey. A service technician is sent to the location to inspect and review the units. The inspection will include:

• Examine the buildings or modules that require renovation to prepare a comprehensive work scope
• Determine what material, equipment, tools, and work permits are necessary on-site to perform the work
• Assess auxiliary or utility systems to see how they can be connected and compatible
• Create floor plans and general arrangement drawings for the client to check and approve
• Recognize any hazards and safety requirements and plan accordingly
• Search for any items the customer might have overlooked that can be repaired and added to the renovation scope.

Once the scope of refurbishment is determined, the next step is to choose where the work will take place. There are two options: on-site or at the refurbishing company’s site. Both have their pros and cons.

On-Site Refurbs:

Staying on-site can reduce costs by avoiding the expense of moving the module off-site and back again. On-site refurbishment is usually for jobs that are not very extensive. Some modules are locked into place and can’t be moved to a facility for refurbishment, which means that the work must be performed where the module is located

Refurbs at the Facility:

Space constraints can make working on offshore vessels and facilities difficult and expensive. Some refurbishment jobs are too large and complicated to perform on-site. In these cases, it is better to transport the unit to the manufacturer’s facility. The work can be done quicker at the manufacturer, as all the tools and personnel are in one place and there’s enough space. Refurbishments at the facility are done for big projects that need a lot of tools and equipment that might be cost-prohibitive to transport to and from the site.

Types of PAM Refurbishments and the Most Common

There are three main types of refurbishments for offshore modules: Cosmetic updates, structural/utility updates, and redesigns.

Cosmetic Refurb:

A cosmetic refurbishment entails going through the unit and replacing and updating various parts to make it look new. The list of updates depends on the type of unit and the environment. For example, a sleeper accommodation module will have different needs than a galley module. Additionally, where the unit has been operating will impact what cosmetic work is needed. Generally, this involves fixing or replacing broken or missing items, applying new paint, new flooring, etc.

Most Common Cosmetic Refurbs:

We have found that the floors, cabinets, hardware (door handles, locks, etc.), and paint for the exterior and interior are generally needed when performing a cosmetic refurbishment.

Utilities Refurb:

Portable accommodation modules have long operational life spans. Units can spend more than 20 years in service before they reach the end of life and need refurbishing. In that time, the regulations for electrical and plumbing could change. This is why, as part of a refurbishment, the electrical and plumbing are often upgraded to ensure that the unit will meet the most current set of regulations and operate safely.

Most Common Utilities Refurb:

For utilities refurbishment, we find that outlets and light fixtures on the electrical side will almost always need replacing. On the plumbing side, showers, sinks and toilets always need maintenance or replacement.

Redesign:

As the name implies, a redesign changes the module for a different purpose. A redesign allows the module to adapt to the project's changing needs. These redesigns can take just about any type of module (Sleeper, Galley, Diner, Laundry, Rec. Room, Office, Workshop etc.) and convert them to another.

Most Common Redesign Refurb:

For redesign refurbishments, customers typically want to convert sleeper modules into office space.

Portable accommodation module refurbishment solutions offer a cost-effective way to extend the life of older offshore modules. Armoda offers portable accommodation module refurbishment solutions that can cost-effectively transform old modules into new ones, supporting your project for years to come. Contact us today with your questions.