© creative synergies, Laurent Bailly
Ideal conditions to maintain
Whether in the greenhouses, in the fields, or in the warehouse, every piece of equipment plays a valuable role. A broken irrigation pump can jeopardize a crop. The slightest temperature or humidity imbalance in a greenhouse can open the door to disease or slow growth. And it's also in these details that flavor is built: a vegetable growing without stress, with everything it needs at the right time, gives its best.
A maintenance team always on the lookout
With 160 hectares of fields, six greenhouses spread over 15 hectares, two warehouses, and staff housing, the facilities are vast, and interventions may be necessary day or night. René Michot joined us a year and a half ago as maintenance manager. He works with Atanas Todorov, who has been familiar with the farm for three years. A third technician has been hired and will join the team very soon.
Together, they manage the irrigation, heating and ventilation systems, sorting and packaging machines, cold rooms, and many other infrastructure facilities, not to mention the equipment in the homes. Suffice it to say, there's always something to do, and they're constantly on the move, all over the farm.
Maintenance, a collective affair
The smooth running of the facilities also relies on everyone's commitment. Area managers are responsible for immediately reporting any anomalies, sharing all useful information to facilitate interventions. For troubleshooting, technicians can sometimes rely on a colleague who can handle the necessary work independently or based on a few instructions given over the phone.
At the same time, the maintenance team relies on a network of external partners who have a thorough knowledge of the company and its equipment, both for planned interventions and in the event of unforeseen circumstances.
Facilities that evolve with the company
Building greenhouses, purchasing machinery, and adopting new technologies: since its inception in 1982, our company has grown, and our equipment has become increasingly numerous and sophisticated. Maintenance requires keeping pace to ensure the long-term operation of these infrastructures.
One of our recent investments involves an ozone irrigation water disinfection system, installed in our greenhouses by our partners at ST Solutions in Yverdon-les-Bains. This process uses ozone, a powerful oxidizing agent, to eliminate pathogenic microorganisms and various contaminants from water before it is used for irrigation. This treatment effectively reduces the risk of plant disease and conserves resources, thanks to a water reuse system.
This equipment will also require regular maintenance to ensure its proper functioning. Like all facilities, it will help create the ideal conditions for quality vegetables.
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