The client: FIMBank p.l.c

 

FIMBank p.l.c. is a leading provider of trade finance, factoring and forfaiting solutions, headquartered in Malta with a network of international offices servicing customers in over fifty countries. In 2008 the company embarked on a project to design and custom-build the Group’s new Head Office tower in St. Julian’s Malta. Due to the nature of this industry, a number of systems that would ensure total security, safety and energy efficient solutions at the new head office facilities were required.

 

ESI was entrusted to deliver the latest building automation system. The FIMBank multi-storey building is today equipped with a Building Energy Management System (BEMS), Intrusion and Access Control Systems, Voice Alarm systems, which were engineered, installed, tested and commissioned by ESI. The Bank short-listed and selected ESI, both for the top brands that the company represented as well as for the vast experience and technical expertise the company’s engineers have in this specialist field.

 

The Solution:

The solution that was put forward by ESI was an IP based system and included the management of Building Energy Management System (BEMS) which system allows control and monitor of the Heating Ventilation and AC (HVAC) system, including Variable Refrigerant Volume (VRV) system, outdoor air processing units and heat recovery units. It also gives the flexibility to take readings of utilities energy consumption within a click of a button. It was important that the systems were energy efficient and in line with FIMBank’s sustainability policies. The Building is managed by a state-of-the-art central BEMS system.

 

ESI also installed a highly efficient lighting control solution based on a DALI interface. DALI, is considered the true standard for professional digital lighting and lighting control. The principal challenge faced by ESI was to train the users with regards to the adoption of a fully automated lighting system which adjusts light intensity depending on the environment and user configuration. The transition to this new user friendly involved technical training which ensured a smooth handover.

 

ESI were the suppliers of an integrated security system, based on Biometric door access control, together with an intrusion detection, which systems were also of utmost importance for FIMBank.

A voice evacuation (public address) system integrated with the fire alarm was also requested by the client. This system is of particular importance in case of a fire or emergency situation and can also be utilised for announcements to employees or tenants located within the building.

Benefits:

The solution provided FIMBank with a scalable application which was robust, flexible and user friendly. The cost-savings aspect was a key area and the savings are reflected in the reduced energy consumption. These systems allowed the user’s own administrators complete control to monitor energy consumption. The BEMS user interface and reporting features also helped improve efficiency as managers and employees alike were able to be pro-active and settle issues in an efficient manner.

 

The Bank reported that they were satisfied with the training programme that was put in place and that ESI was available over an extended period to continue supporting the company with technical configuration and day-to-day system operations.

 

“ESI’s staff are knowledgeable, accessible and very professional. They were pro-active in their approach and integrated all systems effortlessly, giving us complete peace of mind” said Jason Zammit, Director of the Bank’s subsidiary responsible for the construction, fit-out and facilities management. When asked about implementation issues, Mr. Zammit also stated that ESI were also within the agreed time frames, and sometimes had to wait for things to be delivered from Third-party contractors. Furthermore a service and support agreement that was put in place immediately after the systems were handed over ensures that there is always someone on hand in case issues arise.

 

The same sentiment was shared by Steve Abela, the Facilities Administrator, he stated “Their workers, at all levels, are very professional and these are the kind of contractors we wanted to work with. Their excellent communication ethic and complete accountability provided us with peace of mind throughout the project lifecycle.”