The Open University currently has around 150,000 undergraduate and more than 30,000 postgraduate students. The campus buildings have received architectural awards and commendations in categories such as sustainability and design.

The original scope of work was quite limited and included some external repairs, jet washing and painting of some timber cladding. However, shortly after commencing, the project scope was extended to encompass the external painting of five buildings, namely; the Michael Young building (3 storey), New Library (2 storey), the Stuart Hall building (4 storey), the Robert Hooke building (3 storey) and the Berrill building (5 storey).

Access was a major challenge on this project since the level of the ground varied around each building. Consequently, various forms of access were used to do the work including fixed scaffolding, mobile elevated work platforms (MEWPS), mobile towers, ladders and steps.

In addition, a specialist system was employed to access the roof level areas using the building's high level safety lines. To ensure site safety and the safety of our operatives, several of our painters received specialist safety training in the use of harnesses with attachment equipment, Manujusts.

Both paint manufacturers STO and Dulux Trade were specified for various aspects of the building. A technically advanced masonry paint, STO Lotusan®, was used to coat the existing render. This specialist product uses the natural action of rainfall on its surface to carry incumbent dirt off the building ensuring that the substrate remains in pristine condition for longer.