H&F Electrical Contractors’ commitment to delivering high-quality services has been recognised at the Ireland’s Electrical Awards 2024, where the Limerick-based company was Highly Commended in the Large Contractor of the Year category. This accolade is a testament to the exceptional standards consistently upheld across its projects.
“It’s always great to receive recognition at industry awards, as it validates our approach and highlights the invaluable contribution of our employees,” explains Don Phelan, Director. “We take pride in delivering an excellent service, but receiving external acknowledgment from our peers reinforces our commitment. Our senior management team leads from the front, with many members having been with the company for over 20 years.”
Commitment to quality and safety
Quality and safety are at the core of H&F Electrical Contractors’ operations. Holding both ISO 9001 and Safe-T-Cert certifications, the company continually strives to exceed these standards through rigorous annual audits and a company-wide culture of excellence.
These high standards have been ingrained since the company’s inception in 1989, forming the foundation of its success despite challenges over the years. “We experienced steady growth until the 2008 economic downturn,” says Mr Phelan. “However, we successfully regained momentum and have since re-established our position, operating across multiple sites nationwide.”
Nationwide coverage and diverse expertise
While headquartered in Limerick, H&F Electrical operates nationwide. “We have a strong presence in Limerick, Galway, Athlone, Dublin and Cork,” notes Mr Phelan. “The structured approach we’ve implemented – both at management and site levels – has been instrumental in building a strong client base.”
H&F’s diverse portfolio spans multiple sectors, including healthcare, education, government, industrial, commercial, hospitality/accommodation, renewables, and maintenance. This includes projects for the Office of Public Works (OPW) and a significant volume of healthcare contracts with the HSE, ranging from smaller upgrade works to projects up to €10m. The company’s reputation has grown to the extent that clients increasingly seek H&F’s expertise.
Strong workforce and supply chain partnerships
Supporting H&F Electricals’ operations are 140 directly-employed staff, supplemented by 50 sub-contractors. “Our sub-contractor network and supply chain are essential to our success,” says Mr Phelan. “These relationships, built over the last 35-plus years, allow us to continually incorporate innovative ideas and new technologies.”
A focus on technological advancement is evident in H&F Electricals’ approach to design, BIM implementation, and renewable energy solutions, including PV system upgrades, LV/Generator upgrades, and lighting upgrades.
Current projects
H&F Electrical has recently completed major projects, including the new Orthopaedic Theatres at Merlin Park University Hospital, Outpatients Department at Merlin Park University Hospital, a new warehouse facility for BCD Charleville, a major facility upgrade at Sysco Newcastle West, the new Cork Premier Inn hotel, and the Uisce Éireann National Laboratories in Limerick. These projects demonstrate H&F Electricals’ ability to deliver high-quality work across multiple sectors, reinforcing its strong reputation in the industry.
Investment in people and future growth
Like many in the construction industry, H&F Electrical faces recruitment challenges, but the company is proactive in addressing them. “We place strong emphasis on staff development and training,” Mr Phelan explains. “Our sports and social initiatives further support staff retention and recruitment.”
A recent move to new offices in Castletroy reflects H&F Electricals’ long-term vision. “It shows our commitment to the future. We aim to grow steadily, without overextending ourselves, while continuing to expand our capabilities.”
As an award-winning contractor, H&F Electrical remains an attractive employer and a trusted partner for clients. “A key goal is to further strengthen relationships with our existing client base by continuing to deliver the quality standards they expect. The principle remains: ‘You’re only as good as your last job,’ and we uphold that standard.”
Looking ahead, major upcoming contracts include the Newcastle West Garda Station (Client: OPW, Main Contractor: Conack) and the Limerick Surgical Hub (Client: HSE, Main Contractor: Rhatigans). With a wealth of experience and a proven track record of overcoming challenges, H&F Electrical is well-positioned for continued success and further industry recognition in the future.