Bruce Power Inc.

“ Forged from a unique union of business and labour, Bruce Power is Ontario’s largest independent generator of electricity.” Bruce Power strives to ensure the company is a great place to work and to do business.

The Utility’s new owners initiated reorganization within the entire facility. Departments scattered across the vast complex were to be consolidated under one roof. Various building restrictions impacted the furnishings solution – furnishings materials had to meet high flammability ratings and portions of the second floor had a load restriction of 50 lbs. per sq. ft. An accelerated move-in / completion date, tight budget as well as union regulations impacted the final furnishings solution and installation.

The reorganization and refurbishment had specific goals to meet:
To create an environment that attracts and sustains a diverse workforce.
To increase efficiency, reduce beaurocracy and improve effectiveness.
To promote good working relationships within teams.
A new furnishings standard to support individual and group needs.
The atmosphere to be a clean, bright and colourful work environment supportive of ‘safety first’ as the company’s number one value.

POI and Steelcase collaborated on the Activity Based Planning process developing a furnishings solution that met and exceeded Bruce Power’s stringent Health and Safety requirements. Steelcase Montage was selected for the open office areas because of its lightweight aluminum frame, for meeting and exceeding the fire code rating, and for its excellent delivery lead times. Split top corner worksurfaces allowed for ‘customisable’ computer monitor viewing / positioning, as the median age of BP employees was 40+ and personalised Details Accessories packages completed the workstation design. Mobile tables and mobile meeting tools allowed for flexible informal meeting areas, fostering communication and collaboration while maintaining a bright, open office environment.

Bruce Power is more than satisfied with the solutions provided by POI and Steelcase. The initial objections of a few of the staff of the space being too bright! and too open have dissipated as a result of enhanced communication and collaboration. The planning principles developed for this project will be applied to the new complex slated for completion within a couple of years.

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