Two electricians, Asa Downing and Jason Faulkner, from Inviron's Building Systems, Ipswich branch, are currently working in the chilly climes of the Antarctic.

The contract with the British Antarctic Survey (BAS) is for the testing and inspection of all Fixed Electrical Systems at its Rothera Research Station, and will ensure that the electrical equipment used by scientists are in peak working order.

The 10-week schedule of testing electrical equipment at Rothera is extensive and includes laboratories, accommodation and dining areas, the Control Tower, fuel depot and aircraft hangars. Some areas being more critical than others, such as, the Bonner Laboratory - where BAS personnel conduct all of their research - as well as testing satellite equipment that enables our weather forecasts to be made.

While most of the testing is indoor, the intrepid pair have had to venture out into the frozen wilderness to work on circuits for the satellites, fuel depot and aquarium containers, where the test equipment is performing well despite the low temperature.

Jason commented: "We are really enjoying the experience of working out here and have been lucky enough to go on boat trips around the surrounding islands and the gigantic icebergs.

"We have completed our field training, which meant staying out in a tent for a night, as well as learning how to travel over highly creviced glaciers. We have also seen some amazing wildlife particularly, the spectacular sight of whales in their natural environment."

Both Asa and Jason have been able to experience a number of leisure activities during their free time such as skiing, riding snowmobiles and using the base's climbing wall. Jason also took part in the New Year's Eve 10km run.

Colin Clements, Inviron's General Manager, Ipswich branch, where the electricians usually work, commented: "This contract, although in an unusual environment, is being handled in a 'business as usual' and professional manner by Jason and Asa. They liaise regularly with the facilities manager on base and the electrical engineer back in Cambridge to ensure that, as always, we cause minimal disruption to employees going about their daily jobs, wherever those jobs may be."