Client Background
A longtime client with a global estate of fulfilment centres asked DTE to assist in a large-scale swap out of their wireless access points (AP’s) that were approaching end-of-life for next-generation hardware that would support their forward-thinking operational requirements.
The Challenge
In Phase 1 of the project, we successfully replaced over 3,000 internal and external APs across 8 facilities in the UK and Germany. Operating within a 24-hour environment, the client required minimal downtime, which we maintained at just 8 hours per site. All upgrades were completed within a tight 5-week window, right through the peak Christmas period, ensuring uninterrupted operations while modernising critical infrastructure.
Access Point Replacement
More than 3,000 internal and external access points were required to be replaced as part of the upgrade initiative.
8 Facilities
This project encompassed eight warehouse facilities located across the UK and Germany.
5-Week Window
Access points were required to be installed within a 5-week timeframe, which included the peak Christmas trading period.
“I’m pleased to report that both the AP swap and removal operations have been successfully completed.
I want to particularly commend DTE for their outstanding execution. Their professionalism and problem-solving capabilities were exemplary throughout the process, effectively handling all challenges that arose.”
The Solution
We performed surveys of each site, checking the quantity and locations of AP’s against the supplied floorplans to ensure accuracy. Each replacement AP was checked and labelled by DTE and we worked closely with the client to plan the work during scheduled shut-down times, dividing the warehouse into specific work areas with strict schedules, and prioritising sensitive areas of the warehouse operations such as their robotics floors.
Our IPAF-certified technicians performed AP swap-outs at a rate of one every 20 minutes, working in pairs at variable heights using ladders and scissor lifts (MEWP’s), removing the old AP and installing the new one with a safety wire and reconnecting the ethernet cable. A photo was taken of each location showing the completed work.
We collaborated with the client’s on-site health and safety team to provide robust Risk Assessments and Method Statements (RAMS), to safely work at height and move MEWP’s around the facility.
The Results
DTE performed all swap-outs on-time and with safety at the forefront of our delivery. Collaboration with the client was key to our success, with multiple visits to each location required due to working time restrictions and location access availability, it was critical that our scheduling with all stakeholders was timely and accurate. DTE received glowing feedback from the client:
On-Time, Safe Delivery
All access point swap-outs were completed within agreed timelines, with safety maintained as a top priority throughout the project.
Seamless Client Collaboration
Close coordination with the client and stakeholders ensured accurate scheduling and efficient delivery, despite restricted working hours and complex site access requirements.
Outstanding Client Feedback
The successful execution and professional approach resulted in highly positive feedback, reinforcing confidence in the delivery and outcomes.
Manufacturers used during this project
Written by Mitchell Rutherford
Technical Director
Mitchell Rutherford is Technical Director at DTE, overseeing the design, installation, and supply of wireless solutions. With extensive expertise in wireless technologies and project delivery, Mitchell ensures that DTE’s wireless projects are executed efficiently, reliably, and to the highest technical standards.
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