Mapping the underground networks on PSE campuses in Cambodia
Supporting the charity ‘Pour un Sourire d’Enfant’ (PSE) in improving the management of its facilities in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, by mapping the underground networks at its three campuses. The project aims to ensure the safety of maintenance operations, facilitate future development work and guarantee the continuity of educational activities for the benefit of the thousands of children and young people supported by the charity.
Two Artelia staff members travelled to Phnom Penh to support the PSE teams in collecting and analysing the data required to map the campuses’ underground infrastructure. Working alongside local teams, they took part in topographical surveys, the inspection of existing networks and the collection of technical information on water, sewerage, electricity and fire protection networks. This mission helped to build up a vital knowledge base to improve infrastructure management, facilitate maintenance operations and support the future development of the campuses.
“An incredible experience with PSE, characterised by an approach to engineering that was unusual in many respects! The surprises began as soon as we started reviewing the initial documents in Saint-Ouen and continued every day on site. Beyond the technical side, the main challenge was a human one: putting together an operational team comprising people of very different ages, skills, cultures and energy levels, and then establishing ourselves as legitimate leaders from day one – even when fatigue set in whilst reviewing and verifying the data!” says Éric.
“As a design technician, I usually work in the office. This mission allowed me to take on a different role in the field alongside the Cambodian teams. The PSE campus is inspiring. Being able to make my own contribution, however modest, to this NGO was particularly rewarding. As I’m not used to travelling, discovering daily life in Phnom Penh alongside the Cambodians will remain an unforgettable experience,” adds Thierry.