Three Tactics for Delivering Electrical Works in a Live TV Studio

Delivering precision without disruption

Working in a live TV studio demands precision, coordination, and complete control over noise, safety, and timing. At NBC Borehamwood Studios, A Bright Solution delivered a full electrical design and fit-out package within a tight three-week window — all while filming continued next door. The project proved that even in high-pressure, 24-hour environments, disciplined planning and communication can keep programmes on schedule without compromise.

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What the project involved

The works included a Thorlux-led lighting system with presence detection and daylight harvesting, providing both energy efficiency and full compliance with CIBSE emergency lighting guidance. A new three-phase distribution board was installed to supply lift operations, supported by containment, small-power upgrades, and detailed circuit labelling for future maintenance.

Every component was documented and commissioned to NICEIC standards, ensuring that the client received a fully certified, compliant installation backed by inspection and test results.

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Tactic 1: Plan for access and communication first

On a live production site, time windows are precious. The ABS team established a clear communication chain between the studio management, main contractor, and our electrical supervisors before work began.

We secured evening access permits, scheduled deliveries outside of filming hours, and produced a detailed method statement and risk assessment (RAMS) for every stage. This coordination avoided disruption to filming and allowed safe parallel working with other trades on set infrastructure.

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Tactic 2: Engineer containment for safety and silence

Noise control was a critical requirement. We selected containment systems and fixings designed for low vibration and quiet installation. Conduit routes were optimised to minimise drilling in acoustic zones, and temporary barriers were used to reduce airborne sound transmission during live sessions.

Each circuit was installed to BS 7671 standards, with labelled containment and terminations for easy fault identification. This disciplined containment strategy not only reduced rework risk but also shortened testing and commissioning time.

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Tactic 3: Treat testing and documentation as deliverables

In a live environment, documentation is as important as the physical installation. Our engineers compiled daily inspection records, isolation certificates, and commissioning sheets for review by the main contractor.

At handover, NBC Borehamwood received a full O&M pack containing testing results, circuit schedules, and manufacturer warranties — ensuring long-term maintainability and safety assurance. This transparent documentation approach strengthens trust and simplifies future facility audits.

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Why this approach matters

Live productions cannot tolerate downtime or rework. A Bright Solution’s methodical, documentation-led delivery keeps risk low, maintains compliance, and protects filming continuity. By uniting design, installation, and commissioning under one accountable lead, we remove interface gaps and deliver electrical systems that are both functional and future-ready.

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Linked services

If you’re preparing a studio, warehouse, or production facility, explore our Industrial Electrical Services for compliant power distribution, lighting, and life-safety systems.

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Related evidence

View the full NBC Borehamwood Studios Case Study for project photos, scope details, and programme outcomes.

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