8 Considerations for Firms Purchasing Equipment or Prefabricated Buildings

The stakes are high when construction and engineering firms procure large equipment or prefabricated buildings for their clients. These decisions impact project timelines, budgets, safety, and customer satisfaction. This article outlines the critical factors that firms must evaluate to make informed decisions that align with regulatory standards and client expectations. 

1- Compliance with Regulations and Standards

Ensuring compliance is non-negotiable. Firms must confirm that all purchases meet the necessary local, state, and federal regulations, including:

• Building Codes and Safety Standards: Adherence to fire ratings, state approvals for engineering integrity, PE stamped drawings and zoning laws. 

• Industry-Specific Guidelines: For example, NFPA requirements for fire-rated buildings and FM approval for wind loads vary by geographic location. 

• Environmental Regulations: Addressing regulated secondary containment sump sizing to protect floodplains’ groundwater supply or freeboard factors. 

2- Cost and Budget Management

Balancing quality and budget is a delicate act. Firms must evaluate:

• Upfront Costs vs. Total Cost of Ownership (TCO): Consider maintenance, energy efficiency, and lifecycle durability. 

• Budget Adherence: Strategies for meeting client budgets without sacrificing essential features. 

 

3- Understanding Customer-Specific Needs

Customization is key to meeting unique client requirements. Important considerations include: 

• Functionality: Ensuring the building or equipment serves its intended purpose. 

• Scalability: Planning for future expansions or changing needs. 

• Aesthetic Integration: Matching designs with existing structures. 

4- Quality and Durability

Choosing high-quality materials and designs ensures longevity and reliability. Focus areas:

• Weather Mitigation: Withstand elements like high-force wind, snow load, temperature insulation, and humidity concerns. 

• Structural Integrity: Ensuring safety in extreme conditions and making the building a part of the location’s weather safety plans. 

5- Supplier Reliability and Support

Selecting a reputable supplier reduces risks and ensures smooth execution. Key factors: 

• Track Record: Research supplier reviews, case studies, years in business, and solvency. 

• Post-Sale Support: Warranties, maintenance, and parts availability. 

• Delivery Timelines: Meeting project shipping schedules without delays. 

6- Safety Considerations

Safety is paramount when working with large equipment or hazardous materials. Ensure: 

• Operational Safety: Mitigate risks during installation and use. 

• Fire and Explosion Resistance: Critical for chemical and lithium-ion battery storage. 

7- Logistics and Installation

Streamlined logistics minimize project delays. Address: 

• Transportation Challenges: Moving oversized items. 

• Site Preparation: Foundations, utilities, and anchoring. 

• Assembly Time: Prefabricated options often offer faster installations. 

8- Customer Approval and Satisfaction

Maintaining clear communication and transparency builds trust. Steps to take: 

• Stakeholder Buy-In: Collaborate closely with clients at all stages, whether your firm is procuring or if your customer is. Experience working with EPC firms as intermediaries is important to making the process seamless. 

• Detailed Documentation: Provide specs, warranties, general assembly drawings, and compliance certifications. 

Conclusion

By addressing these critical concerns, construction and engineering firms can make confident, informed purchasing decisions that satisfy client needs and uphold project standards. Incorporating these measures ensures successful outcomes and strengthens customer relationships.  Are you faced with choosing a project’s chemical storage building design? Contact U.S. Chemical Storage for buildings that can keep your client compliant and your firm free from headaches. Find out more about our fire-rated chemical storage options here.

References:

• US Chemical Storage: Ideal 55 Gallon Drum Storage
• EPA: Safety Advisory Risks of Improper Storage of Hazardous Chemicals
• International Code Council: ICC Code Finder By State
• US Chemical Storage: Chemical Storage Buildings Designed To Meet State Safety Codes
• Safeopedia: What Regulations Apply To Hazmat Storage? 
• US Chemical Storage: Are You Sure Your Storage Building is Compliant?