CONSTRUCTION AND REFURBISHMENT
Temporary mobile medical units have proven highly versatile, and have had many uses in the healthcare sector since the outbreak of COVID-19.
partners is valuable beyond the delivery of the work itself; it is crucial for ensuring that projects are carried out safely, effectively, flexibly, and with compassion.
Prioritising infection control In such projects, infection control is key, as contractors are likely to be more visible, and may come into contact with staff and patients. Prioritising infection control is vital in hospitals, where not only can infection spread quickly and easily, but can also have serious consequences. Prevention measures not only protect staff, but also reduce the risk of spreading infection to patients, who may be more vulnerable. Contractors specialising in work in the healthcare sector will be well-versed in implementing a series of measures, including social distancing. While other sectors may have been able to relax strict social distancing measures, this should remain in place for contractors working in hospitals. By maintaining as much distance as possible, workers are not only minimising risk to hospital staff and patients, but also between each other – reducing the risk of spreading infection among the team, which could impact the delivery of a project through absence- related delays.
Urgent challenges are often temporarily overcome through the introduction of short-term measures.
Safe removal of waste Another way to reduce the risk of spreading infection during a project is the safe removal of waste. Naturally, any type of construction work results in debris, and it is vital that this is removed frequently both to prevent the spread of infection, and to reduce on-site hazards. There are several ways for contractors to safely remove debris, such as removal in sealed containers, or covering waste materials with a damp cloth to prevent them becoming airborne. Communication between contractor and client is key due to the round-the-clock nature of hospitals, as it may be best to arrange specific schedules for removing waste to ensure that it has the least possible impact on users.
While restricting access into
construction zones helps to prevent the spread of dust and debris, this is an inevitable part of undertaking any project to upgrade or expand a theatre space. Fortunately, there are several steps that can be taken to reduce how much debris is produced and its chances of spreading infection throughout a hospital. Experienced contractors are able to implement several physical measures to significantly reduce the impact of debris.
For example, the use of airtight plastic and dry wall barriers, negative-pressure ventilation, dust suppression through the use of water, using dust cubes and tack mats, and covering all air vents, are important for preventing construction waste materials becoming airborne and spreading beyond the construction zone into the wider hospital.
Minimising disruption As well as implementing a robust infection control strategy, early engagement with a specialist contractor is also valuable in planning how the work will be carried out with minimal disruption for patients, as well as hospital staff and visitors. This is important for any hospital project, but is crucial for theatre spaces in order to avoid delaying procedures, and extending waiting lists further. Construction works have the potential to impact hundreds, or even thousands, of people, and while some closures are unavoidable, it’s vital to minimise any patient disruption. One of the most frequently used methods to overcome this challenge is to carry out the work in phases. This means that some theatres remain fully operational while work is carried
March 2024 Health Estate Journal 67
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