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The Affects Geography Has on EPC
The vast amounts of natural resources located in and around the Gulf Coast have led Texas and Louisiana to become one of the most prominent industrial regions of the country. These resources supply the area with a number of benefits, but there are specific challenges that this region of the country faces on a regular basis. If an industrial company wishes to remain prosperous in Louisiana and Texas, it must possess an in-depth understanding of the area. Here are some geographic issues that have the ability to affect EPC in the Gulf Coast.
Site and Shoring Work
The construction process demands excellent site and shoring work. This will prevent the site from incurring weather-related damage and other weather concerns while it is being prepped for incoming machinery and materials. In Texas and Louisiana, high-quality site and shoring work are simply non-negotiable if a facility wishes to protect its materials and site. It will also protect workers from storms and blistering temperatures.
Storms and Severe Weather
Hurricanes and strong storms are a part of everyday life for inhabitants of the Gulf Coast. If an industrial facility is not properly prepared for the onslaught of extreme weather, it could incur massive amounts of damage to buildings, machinery, and material. Before constructing buildings of any sort, facility managers and officials should be sure that the construction materials are capable of withstanding high winds and water damage.
Facilities in this part of the country will have access to one of the most developed and advanced transportation infrastructures in existence. Texas and Louisiana offer numerous highways, ports, railroads, and interstates to their local inhabitants and businesses. This means that the majority of facilities should have no problem transporting materials to other states and cities. Prior to establishing a new site, companies should calculate shipping costs and decide on the most cost-efficient routes and methods.
The area is widely known for its humid, swamp-like climate and remarkably high temperatures. These factors create the need for outdoor workers must remain hydrated at all times, regardless of the time of the year. If workers do not hydrate properly, they will be at risk for heat strokes and dehydration. The area is also prone to heavy rainfall, so facility managers should remain abreast of weather conditions. The Gulf Coast's low-lying topography makes it especially susceptible to flooding during these rainstorms.
Distribution Methods
Companies should always keep their distribution methods in mind when choosing a new site or facility. It should decide on how its materials and products will be shipped, and whether or not the facility is equipped to efficiently distribute. Most facilities eventually settle on a single preferred method so that it can establish a proper facility.
Understanding the Local Area
Before attempting to establish a facility in the Gulf Coast, companies should understand that the area is already home to an enormous variety of petroleum refineries. If a company does not understand the local business climate, it could easily find itself facing off against larger, more established companies in the region. How will the facility stack up against competitors? What does this facility plan to do that other facilities cannot? A company should answer these two simple questions before attempting to build a new facility.
Consulting Companies Can Help
The factors listed above should always be considered when servicing clients and establishing sites in the Gulf Region. Local celebrations and cultural traditions should also be factored in since many workers will more than likely request these days off. When companies need to understand this part of the country, they turn to engineering consultants for help. This help is delivered using a variety of consulting and engineering principles to help companies thrive in their new locations. Polaris is a leader when it comes to helping companies establish successful sites and client relationships.
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