Major infrastructure projects across remote regions present unique accommodation challenges for supporting large migratory construction workforces. Staffing pipeline, road and resource development sites often hundreds of miles from existing communities requires innovative temporary housing solutions. When a leading international contractor embarked on multiple concurrent mega-projects, a reliable, scalable and relocatable accommodations partner was imperative.

After reviewing options, Watson Construction selected modular specialist Lida Group to design, manufacture and deploy prefabricated camp complexes at each stage of the multi-year initiatives. Key requirements included standardized housing capable of rapid deployment, relocation every 6-12 months as work phases progressed, and sustainability in harsh Northern climates with permafrost.

Lida’s expertise in remote, modular camps aligned perfectly with these needs. Their proprietary structural insulated panel (SIP) system utilizing an innovative, foundationless design presented numerous advantages over stick-built or conventional modular options. Individual housing units and common buildings would interconnect to form seamless, energy efficient encampments while eliminating permanent foundation construction costs and risks.

Standard 120m2 duplex modules configured as single-family homes with private bedrooms and shared living space were selected. Panels are factory-assembled as entire room-sized sections — floors, walls and roof — for on-site connections. Continuous foam core insulation provides superior durability and airtightness rated to -60°C. Integrating plumbing, electrical and finishes results in turnkey living spaces ready for immediate occupation.

A three phase program was established, with the first complex scheduled for immediate deployment to a remote gas pipeline worksite. Under extremely tight four week deadlines, Lida mobilized engineers and production crews at their Alberta facility. Using advanced panel assembly lines, twenty duplex modules were continuously constructed while design and permitting proceeded in parallel for subsequent phases.

Unique to Lida’s patented SIP system, no concrete foundations are required. Modules simply sit isolated on pre-leveled gravel pads, interconnected at floor junctions using bolted connections. This foundationless design enables the entire complex to be easily relocated as required, without worrying about abandoned foundations compromising permafrost stability.

Within 28 days, the first camp complex was fully manufactured, winterized internally and loaded onto specialized trailers. Transport caravans then delivered housing and common buildings non-stop to meet operational deadlines. Crews guided modules precisely into place using cranes, quickly interconnecting units. Electrical and plumbing hookups were fast, employing pre-installed quick connections.

Two weeks after commencement, occupancy was achieved ahead of projections. Watson crews moved in fully supported with communal amenities like recreation halls, cafeterias and administration spaces all seamlessly connected. No delays were incurred despite the remote location and harsh winter conditions.

Following commissioning support from Lida, responsibility transitioned fully to the camp operator. Self-sufficient autonomy has since been maintained for nearly two years through extreme environments ranging from -50°C winters to +30°C summers. Structural integrity and energy performance have exceeded expectations with zero reported issues.

Succeeding phases saw additional modular complexes deployed to evolving work sites. Standardization streamlined production with minimal engineering overhead. Camp designs scaled intelligently based on crew sizes fluctuating between 150-400 persons. Module inventories were efficiently rerouted between provinces as construction migrated.

Lida’s ongoing technical support through virtual assistance, annual inspections and predictive maintenance training ensure optimal long-term operations. Standardization of connector types allows for reconfiguration, expansion or subdivision of living units as workforce needs dictate. Complete encampments can disconnect and relocate every 1-2 years to follow construction without delays.

By the project’s current stage, five rotational camp complexes have housed thousands of Watson crews over five years. Annual relocations are executed seamlessly within weeks using Lida’s well-rehearsed methods. Modular asset utilization has proven the most sustainable and cost-efficient solution compared to alternatives like seasonal lodge outposts or long-distance worker commutes.

For Watson, Lida delivered far more than just buildings – they established turnkey communities enabling full focus on project timelines. Foundationless, energy efficient modular construction simplified logistics, sped schedules and future-proofs assets for reuse. Standardizing with a specialist partner unlocked scalability, reduced engineering costs and streamlined complex logistics into a plug-and-play system.

In summary, Lida Group’s innovative structural insulated panel building system and expertise in designing and deploying prefabricated camp solutions presented the optimal accommodation strategy. Foundationless modular housing, communal facilities and supporting infrastructure streamlined Watson’s rotational construction camp requirements. Standardized manufacturing, rapid on-site assembly and simplified relocations aligned perfectly with tight schedules and evolving remote work fronts. Superior insulating performance through harsh seasons demonstrated long-term sustainability. Overall, the modular complex approach delivered fully-serviced, autonomous communities— empowering Watson to maximize efficiencies and succeed in delivering critical infrastructure projects on time and on budget across challenging regions and climates.

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