RVI Urgent Treatment Centre

The project comprised the development of a new build centre adjacent to the existing A&E at the RVI to form an Urgent Treatment Centre.

The building is standalone from the main building but was designed to operate alongside the existing department to improve services to patients.

The new centre is built on the existing podium which created challenges in tying into existing services. The main plant areas are located beneath the podium and the unit served from below. The plant area consists of new A & B low voltage switchrooms, IT Hub and external mechanical plant areas.

One of the main challenges of this project was the design of a new generator to replace the existing which primarily serves the Clinical Office Block but will also serve the UTC.

Working within a live hospital environment presents some unique challenges which must be considered throughout the project:

• Patient Safety and Infection Control: Ensuring patient safety is paramount. Construction activities must be carefully managed to prevent contamination and infection.
• Minimising Disruptions: Construction work must be planned to minimise disruptions to ongoing medical services. This includes break ins into existing services and switch overs to new boards.
• Compliance with Regulations: Construction in hospitals must comply with stringent health and safety regulations, including infection control measures and HTM compliance.
• Coordination and Communication: Effective communication and coordination with hospital staff are essential to ensure that construction activities do not interfere with patient care and that the new development meets the needs of the hospital to provide an improved patient experience and working conditions for staff.