Millions of euros are spent annually by farmers in upgrading and improving their farms. The majority of this money is spent on building new sheds. Farmers expect the work to be completed to the highest standard while still been cost effective.
To ensure this is the case, most turn to experienced steel fabrication companies that they know will provide an excellent service.
Providing such a service to the south east is Kenneally Steel which was formed in November 1999 and commenced trading in December of the same year.
From humble beginnings, the company has grown over the years as its customer base has increased during the same period.
Having initially focused on the development of agriculture buildings at the company’s workshop and erection of these structures on sites, Kenneally Steel became a specialist provider of farm buildings.
“I started the business in 1999,” said founder and owner Denis Kenneally. “I had worked for Crowley Engineering for six years, before I decided to start up my own business. I had a good relationship with Crowley’s when I left and that would be still there today. We would often work on projects together.”
Having started with just two employees, Kenneally Steel now employs in the region of 22 people to help cover their workload.
As well as agricultural work, the company also specialises in the industrial sector, which means they are kept busy all year round, while they have also completed projects for pharmaceutical companies.
“There would be ten guys working in the agri sector, while another ten on the industrial side of the business, plus there are two in the office. Many of the employees are here for years and they are all experienced and highly trained in what they do. They have played a huge part in the success of the business over the years. It can be hard to get skilled workers for this trade. During the recession, a lot of lads left the country and they haven’t returned.”
The introduction of the CE marking scheme has transformed the steel fabrication industry as there is a lot more traceability, legislation and regulations to be adhered too.
CE Marking is now mandatory for most products on sale in the EU. As the notified body in Ireland responsible for certification of products to Irish and European standards, farmers seeking grants for farm buildings must use companies that are CE Marking compliant.
“We placed a big investment in the company to get everything up to standard. The CE Marking is an integral part of the business and there are certain systems that have to be in place, while there must be full traceability and everything is recorded.
“This really does benefit the customer as they get a better product that they know will stand the test of time.”
Over the years, the workshop has undergone many transformations as modern technology is always to the fore.
“We have always been conscious about investing in plant as you need modern up to date machinery to carry out the work to the highest standard. Two years ago, we invested heavily and brought in access equipment, hoist and netting. We intend upgrading again towards the end of the year.”
To ensure that the correct materials are used on all their jobs, Denis and his team deal with the same suppliers that they have been with for many years.
“We would have the same suppliers for many years now. They know what we want and we know what we will get from them. All our steel would come from Duggan Steel in Kilkenny and they are a good solid company.”
Health & Safety is a key area for any business as more and more focus has been placed and the wellbeing of not only employees but for anyone using their products.
“We ensure that all employees and sub-contractors used are fully conversant with the Health and Safety Pass Code and safety statement required by legislation.
“Before the commencement of work on your site, Kenneally Steel Limited will carry out a survey and inform you of any situations which we consider to be safety hazard. We will provide you with a full risk assessment and method statement.”
The company has a broad business activity base and they hope to improve these existing activities and expand into other fields of the building industry.
“We are always looking to the future and our order book is very full for the rest of the year, but if the work is there we will do it. We are happy growth wise and there is a good solid team here, so we are always optimistic.”
Denis’ wife Sarah and Kay McCarthy look after the administration side of the business and Denis admits that there is plenty of work to be done on that front.
“There is a lot of paperwork to be looked after, especially since the CE Marking was introduced, but fortunately Sarah and Kay are very good at that.”
Kenneally Steel Fabrication Ltd.
Marston,
Ballyduff Upper,
Co. Waterford
Telephone: (+353) 058-60170
Fax: (+353) 058-60916
Taken from Irish Tractor & Agri magazine Vol 5 No 5, July/August 2017
