Decommissioning – How Does it Work?

Decommissioning can be a mystery process. Seemingly overnight, a facility or space containing industrial machinery can be emptied, cleaned, and ready to be repurposed. But what is the process behind it? 

NRTC Automation is at the forefront of decommissioning services, and we support and walk customers through the process every step of the way. Read on to learn more about how our decommissioning process works.  

How does decommissioning work? 

FIRST, DETERMINE IF IT’S TIME TO DECOMMISSION

The first step in the decommissioning process is to determine that the industrial machine or space is ready to be decommissioned.  

For an industrial machine or robot, are you replacing parts often, or are spare parts becoming a challenge to find? How much money do you have to invest in repairs and maintenance? Answering these questions can help you determine if it is time for decommission or replacement.  

Perhaps a company has outgrown its warehouse and needs to move to a larger space, or adversely has decided to close its doors. These instances would require decommissioning on a bigger scale.  

NRTC can decommission anything from individual robots to facilities larger than 750,000 square feet.  

PREPARATION NEEDS TO BE COMPLETED 

Once you have decided to decommission, it’s time to make sure all the prep steps are completed. Obtaining approvals from the board and management are important, as well as figuring out if the space or facility will be reused or demolished.  

It’s also important to set and define time restrictions the project might have, such as moving dates or target goals for the repurposing of the facility.  

If there are any assets that are going to be moved to another facility, such as an industrial robot or machine, it’s important to transfer those ahead of time. All other assets marked for decommissioning will be taken care of during the process.  

Once the prep work is complete, it’s time for NRTC Automation to take over.  

LET THE DECOMMISSIONING BEGIN 

NRTC starts the decommission process with a 3D facility scan, which includes photos of all industrial equipment and a layout of the facility. Then, a project manager oversees the tear out, from start to finish.  

As part of the process, we identify the equipment of value versus those machines that will need to be scraped, and remove one section at a time, making sure we consult on the method of removal that fits best for a business.  

As NRTC moves through the process, the project manager will provide updates of the project through key milestones and the timeline developed, and communicate a schedule of all the steps. Transparency throughout allows for constant updates, and keeps the project on track.  

Safety is our priority, so expect safety signage and other measures in zones that could be potentially hazardous or dangerous. The NRTC team will wear branded safety gear for visibility and we take all precautions listed by OSHA.  

TIE UP LOOSE ENDS  

Once NRTC Automation has completed the tear out, we complete the broom-ready space by cleaning up any loose ends. This includes making sure the floor is smooth and removing any wires, hooks, or bolts that may keep the floor from being flush.  

Once finished, you have a space that is ready to be swept and repurposed, and the project manager will do one last walkthrough to ensure all steps are completed.  

DECOMMISSIONING WITH NRTC 

Decommissioning doesn’t have to be a mystery, or a long, -drawn-out process. NRTC Automation’s comprehensive decommissioning services place an emphasis on safety, speed, and efficiency. We have a customizable yet structured industrial tear-out service, and work with companies to meet deadlines, develop a plan, and make sure a broom-ready facility is complete at the end of the process.  

Contact NRTC today to learn more about our quick and painless decommissioning services, and how we can help you.