Factory Decommissioning
Factory decommissioning is a complex process involving the dismantling, removal, and relocation of machinery, infrastructure, and assets from an industrial site. Whether you’re relocating to a new facility, closing down operations, or upgrading existing infrastructure, a structured and professional approach to decommissioning is essential.
What is factory decommissioning?
Factory decommissioning is the systematic process of disassembling industrial operations, which may include:
- Dismantling machinery and equipment: Safely disassembling production lines, heavy machinery, and ancillary systems
- Electrical and mechanical disconnections: Ensuring all equipment is safely isolated from power and utility supplies
- Asset transportation or disposal: Relocating machinery to a new site or responsibly disposing of redundant assets
- Site clearance: Preparing the site for repurposing or sale, adhering to environmental and safety regulations
This highly technical process demands expertise, precision, and careful coordination to minimise downtime and ensure the safety of all involved.
Why choose AIS VIG Industrial for your factory decommissioning project?
With over 50 years of experience and a wide range of services, here’s why AIS VIG Industrial Relocation should be your trusted partner for decommissioning projects of any size or complexity.
1. Comprehensive service offering
Our integrated approach means we can manage every aspect of your project, including:
Machinery moving and installation: Relocating machinery with precision to ensure it’s operational at your new site
Lift and shift services: Employing advanced lifting solutions to safely handle heavy or oversized equipment
Mechanical and electrical engineering support: Providing expert disconnections, reinstallation, and commissioning.
Asset removal and disposal: Offering environmentally responsible solutions for obsolete or unwanted equipment.
2. Tailored solutions
Every decommissioning project is unique, which is why we create bespoke plans to suit your operational needs, timeline, and budget. Whether you’re closing a single production line or an entire facility, we deliver solutions that minimise disruption and maximise efficiency.
3. An experienced team and cutting-edge equipment
Our highly skilled team uses the latest tools and equipment, ensuring the safe and efficient handling of your machinery. Our in-house fleet includes everything from cranes and forklifts to hydraulic skates and modular trailers, meaning we have the resources to tackle even the most challenging projects.
4. Strategic location in Doncaster
With our headquarters in Doncaster and a network of partners across the UK and Europe, we’re ideally positioned to provide fast, reliable service no matter where your project is based.
The importance of professional factory decommissioning
Attempting to carry out a factory decommissioning project without professional support can lead to significant risks, including:
- Operational disruptions: Poor planning can result in extended downtime, affecting productivity and revenue
- Safety hazards: Handling heavy machinery and utility disconnections without expertise increases the risk of accidents, exposing your equipment and your people to unacceptable risks
- Compliance issues: Failure to adhere to environmental and safety regulations could result in fines or legal action
- Asset damage: Improper dismantling or transport can damage valuable equipment, leading to costly repairs or replacements
Partnering with AIS VIG Industrial Relocation ensures these risks are mitigated, giving you a cast iron peace of mind and confidence in your project’s success.
We’ve worked with clients across sectors as diverse as food production and pharmaceuticals. Our case studies demonstrate our commitment to delivering exceptional results, even in the most challenging conditions.
Need help planning your own
factory decommissioning?
Then trust the experts at AIS VIG Industrial Relocation! With our comprehensive services, experienced team, and state-of-the-art equipment, we’re ready to help you navigate this complex process with ease.
We specialise in providing end-to-end factory decommissioning solutions tailored to your specific requirements. From initial planning and risk assessments to the safe removal and transport of machinery, we ensure that every step is handled with precision and expertise.
Contact us today to discuss your project, or explore our range of services to see how we can support your industrial relocation needs.
I would recommend VIG to any business who need to move manufacturing equipment safely and professionally.
Director, Hardy Advanced Composite ManufacturingThe VIG team was a pleasure to work with on this project, with their professional attitude, can do mentality from management and staff along with the safe working practices they applied.
Site Engineer AutomotiveJust like to say that the works carried out by VIG were professional and well organised keeping to programme, carrying out complex removal and installation works safely and efficiently.
Site Engineer AutomotiveThey are our “go to” company for plant movement and this contract was another success with a large contribution by VIG.
Senior Project Manager ConstructionFrequently Asked Questions
What is included in a full industrial factory decommissioning service?
Our decommissioning service is a complete “turnkey” solution. It includes the professional disconnection of all M&E (Mechanical and Electrical) services, the safe drainage of hydraulic fluids or coolants, and the methodical dismantling of production lines. We provide full project management, ensuring that assets are catalogued, protected, and prepared for either relocation, storage, or resale, leaving your site “broom-clean” for the landlord or next occupant.
How do you manage the environmental disposal of hazardous materials during a plant closure?
Environmental compliance is central to our decommissioning process. We manage the safe removal and disposal of industrial waste, including oils, chemicals, and contaminated materials, in strict accordance with UK environmental regulations. AIS VIG Industrial ensures that all waste is tracked via licensed carriers and provides a full audit trail of disposal certificates to protect your company from future liability.
Can you perform decommissioning while other parts of the factory remain operational?
Yes. We specialise in “live-site” decommissioning. Our project managers work closely with your production teams to create a segregated work zone, ensuring that power isolations and heavy lifting operations do not disrupt your ongoing business. We can use temporary partitioning and scheduled “quiet windows” to maintain a safe, productive environment for your remaining staff.
The responsiveness and professionalism of the VIG office in managing the project, the crane company and issuing very comprehensive RAMS was extremely helpful in enabling the potentially high risk works to be approved by the safety officers within the end user client at this critically important site. Thanks to you and all your Team for managing the Lift & Shift and Crane Lift works professionally, safely and efficiently. I look forward to undertaking the next stage of works with you all.
Managing Director Health Sector