Working within a busy hospital is never easy, but carrying out the complete refurbishment of an emergency department whilst keeping the whole environment live was a unique challenge that we overcame by closely collaborating with the Trust and all other stakeholders.

Early starts, weekend working and night shifts were features of the painstaking programme management that was essential to avoid disturbance to staff and patients alike, especially when coordinating cut ins and shutdowns.

A 78 week programme was developed and divided into four distinct 4 phases: these being the Support Admin Building, Rapid Assessment Treatment Ward (RAT’s), RESUS Ward and a new Paediatric Ward. The sequencing was further complicated by both new and existing M&E services serving all areas from across the roof, so another M&E phase of roof works was introduced to enable loading out with plant and equipment in a manner not to overload the existing structure. The final phase of the project was then sub divided into six sub phases to keep the emergency department fully operational throughout.

The design involved creating a negative pressure regime to several rooms. In addition, we undertook modifications to the existing ventilation system and associated combined fire and smoke dampers. There were also improvements made to the domestic water services, data, access control and lighting arrangements. New air handling plant, chillers and various condensers were installed on the roof along with associated maintenance platforms.

The facilities at Colchester Hospital provides treatment from initial injury through to emergency department, operating theatres, critical care, trauma ward and rehabilitation services.

Role:

Mechanical and Electrical Contractor

Client:

Barnes Construction

M & E Consultant:

Johns Slater & Haward

Architect:

KLH

Value:

£1.5M

Download the PDF: