Small automation and control panel workshop

Small and mid-sized manufacturers, food and packaging firms, warehouses and machine builders who need upgrades or new automation.

Fixed-price projects covering design, parts and installation, plus ongoing support contracts, upgrades and repair work.

• Control system design and PLC programming
• Electrical panel building and wiring
• Project management and quoting
• Health and safety awareness on industrial sites

• Machinery safety rules: check which UK regulations, standards and marking requirements apply to what you build and install
• Professional indemnity, public liability and product liability insurance, plus employer's liability once you hire
• Electrical qualifications and testing: check what your staff need to carry out panel wiring and site work
• Site rules for contractors, including risk assessments and method statements, and CDM duties on larger jobs
• Cash flow, because parts are bought up front and customers may pay on long terms

Estimates suggest startup costs are typically around £15,000 to £60,000, depending on your premises, tools, test equipment, software, initial parts stock and insurance. Parts are bought up front, so cash flow is worth planning carefully.

Monthly revenue is typically around £6,000 to £30,000, depending on the size and number of projects you win and whether you employ staff. Customers may pay on long terms, so allow for that in your planning.

Check which UK machinery safety regulations, standards and marking requirements apply to what you build. Also check insurance, the electrical qualifications your staff need, contractor site rules and CDM duties on larger jobs.