HEATING AND VENTILATING
For fuel-fired boilers, several key factors must be considered. As mentioned previously, the safety of fuel storage and handling is paramount, as improper management can lead to hazardous situations such as leaks or spills. Additionally, combustion efficiency and emissions control are critical, not only for maintaining operational efficiency, but also for minimising environmental impact. Effective flue gas management is essential to ensure that
harmful gases are properly vented, and do not pose a risk to the facility or its occupants. Equally, compliance with gas safety regulations is also key, particularly for gas-fired boilers, to prevent accidents and ensure safe operation. For electrically heated boilers however, a different set of considerations are presented. The reliability and capacity of the electrical supply are fundamental, as any interruption can disrupt the boiler’s operation, and – consequently – the hospital’s critical functions. Protection against electrical faults is another important factor, requiring robust safety mechanisms to prevent electrical hazards. Compliance with electrical safety standards is mandatory to ensure that the boiler operates safely within the established guidelines. Additionally, the integration of the boiler with the hospital’s electrical infrastructure must be meticulously planned and executed in accordance with HTM 06-01, which provides specific guidance on electrical systems in healthcare facilities.
Conducting a TBHRA Conducting a TBHRA in a healthcare setting is a comprehensive process that requires meticulous planning and execution. The process typically begins with thorough planning and preparation, involving the assembly of a multidisciplinary team comprising boiler operators, maintenance staff, and safety officers. This team reviews existing documentation and previous risk assessments, while familiarising themselves with relevant HTM guidelines and other healthcare-specific regulations. The next phase involves an on-site inspection, where
the team conducts a physical examination of the boiler house and equipment, observes operational procedures, and interviews staff members. This hands-on approach
allows for a thorough understanding of the current operational environment. Following the inspection, the team engages in systematic hazard identification, considering both routine operations and potential emergency scenarios. This comprehensive approach ensures that all potential risks are accounted for. Risk analysis is then carried out, assessing the likelihood and potential severity of identified hazards, while considering existing control measures. This analysis feeds into the risk evaluation stage, where risk levels are determined using a standardised methodology, and risks are prioritised based on their potential impact on patient safety and hospital operations. The assessment then moves to the development
of control measures for unacceptable risks, ensuring alignment with relevant HTM guidelines and best practices. This stage is crucial in mitigating identified risks and enhancing overall safety. The process culminates in the documentation and reporting phase, where a comprehensive TBHRA report is prepared, along with action plans for implementing recommended control measures. This documentation serves as a crucial reference point for ongoing safety management.
Regular review and update Finally, the risk assessment is subject to regular review and update, typically conducted annually, or when significant changes occur. This ensures continuous improvement of safety measures based on operational experience
Corrosion can be a major issue for steam boilers and steam systems.
October 2024 Health Estate Journal 69
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