Expertise Required by Demolition Contractors for Hospital Projects: What Hospitals Should Consider

Demolition and remediation projects in hospitals require a unique set of skills and expertise due to the sensitive nature of the environment. When appointing a demolition contractor for such projects, hospitals must carefully consider various factors to ensure a successful and safe demolition process. In this blog, we will highlight the expertise required by demolition contractors and discuss what 5 key things hospitals should look for when selecting a contractor for their hospital demolition projects.
  1. Experience in Hospital Demolition:

One of the most crucial aspects hospitals should consider is the contractor’s experience in hospital demolition projects. Hospitals are complex structures with intricate systems, including electrical, plumbing, and medical gas lines. A contractor with prior experience in hospital demolitions will be familiar with the unique challenges and safety protocols involved, minimising the risk of accidents and disruptions to ongoing hospital operations.

Project Overview: Bath RUH (Transformation of former Surgical Triage Unit)

Weaver Demolition recently transformed a former Surgical Triage Unit at Bath Royal United Hospital into a modern and flexible workspace. Located on the 2nd floor of a live hospital building, our team carefully decommissioned the unit and reconfigured its layout through internal demolition.

To ensure minimal disruption to the ward below, we implemented a specialised demolition and engineering sequence, along with the use of soundproofing and dust suppression equipment. This allowed us to carry out the necessary work while maintaining a quiet and clean environment.

Despite tight logistical constraints, we were able to meet the project’s requirements by utilising “just in time” deliveries and collections. Additionally, our in-house steel fabrication and erection capabilities eliminated potential delays that could arise from design changes during construction.

The reconfiguration carried out by Weaver Demolition has not only enabled the installation of modern hospital equipment but has also created an open-plan workspace that can easily adapt to the ever-changing demands of the client. The result is a transformed space that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing.

 

  1. Compliance with Regulations and Safety Standards:

Hospitals must prioritise safety during the demolition process. Therefore, it is essential to choose a contractor who is well-versed in local regulations and safety standards specific to healthcare facilities. Compliance with guidelines such as the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulations and the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) codes is crucial to ensure the safety of patients, staff, and the surrounding environment.

 

  1. Knowledge of Hazardous Materials and Remediation:

Hospitals often contain hazardous materials, such as asbestos, lead, and mould, which require specialised handling and remediation. A competent demolition contractor should possess expertise in identifying, handling, and disposing of these materials safely and in accordance with environmental regulations. They should also have experience in coordinating with environmental consultants and ensuring proper remediation procedures are followed.

 

Project Overview: Musgrove Hospital, Taunton

Weaver Demolition was appointed the Principal Contractor for the demolition of Musgrove Hospital in Taunton, Somerset. Once again, given the live hospital environment, special attention was given to minimising noise and dust to avoid any disruptions to nearby wards and patients.

The scope of work included the removal of both licensed and non-licensed asbestos, a soft strip-out of the building, and the demolition of various structures. Additionally, efforts were made to make necessary repairs to the remaining structure that was separated from one of the demolished structures.

Throughout the project, Weaver Demolition prioritised the safety and well-being of the hospital staff, patients, and surrounding community. By carefully managing noise and dust levels, we were able to successfully complete the demolition without causing any disruptions to the hospital operations.

 

  1. Understanding Infection Control Measures:

Hospital demolition projects must adhere to strict infection control measures to prevent the spread of contaminants and maintain a safe environment for patients and staff. A knowledgeable contractor should have a thorough understanding of infection control protocols, including containment strategies, air quality monitoring, and decontamination procedures. Their expertise in implementing these measures will minimise the risk of cross-contamination during the demolition process.

 

  1. Effective Project Management and Communication Skills:

Hospital demolition projects require meticulous planning, coordination, and communication to minimise disruptions to patient care and hospital operations. A reliable contractor should possess strong project management skills, ensuring efficient scheduling, resource allocation, and timely completion of the project. Effective communication with hospital stakeholders, including administrators, facility managers, and staff, is also crucial to address concerns and maintain transparency throughout the process.

 

Project Overview: Bath RUH (Enabling works for specialised cancer research unit)

Bath Royal United Hospital Internal Demolition3

Weaver Demolition is an experienced contractor with numerous successful projects completed for the hospital sector. A second project completed for Bath RUH clearly demonstrates our capability in the sector.

After successfully qualifying as a contractor through a rigorous pre-qualification questionnaire, Weaver Demolition was recently awarded a contract by Bath RUH. Our task was to provide a comprehensive enabling contract, which included de-contaminating the structure, removing asbestos, and safely demolishing redundant hospital buildings. All of this had to be done while working within the live and highly sensitive environment of the hospital.

The demolition covered a 2-acre site, with careful partition works carried out between the live hospital areas and the areas to be demolished. The scope of the project was extensive, involving the strip-out of licensed and non-licensed asbestos, draining and purging mechanical systems, soft-strip works, de-contaminating underground service ducts, removing basements, service trenches, and ducts, as well as diverting drainage with detailed mapping and identification of manhole locations.

To ensure sustainability, all hardcore arisings were crushed on-site and reused for levelling and piling mat formation, with CBR testing conducted to ensure proper compaction. Additionally, we had to consider structural alterations and openings, which led to the remodelling of the hospital’s internal layout through the creation of various openings ranging in size from 900mm to over 4m wide.

Weaver Demolition successfully delivered a complete solution that prepared the site for the construction of a specialised cancer research unit within the Bath RUH hospital site. Our professionalism and expertise were highly praised by the Project Manager at Bath RUH.

The project commenced in September 2020 and was completed within 8 months. Upon completion, Weaver Demolition handed over a construction-ready site that was free from contamination and underground obstructions. By carrying out the demolition and enabling works as a separate standalone package, we effectively de-risked the project for the client.

 

Conclusion:

Selecting the right demolition contractor for hospital projects is vital to ensure a safe and successful demolition process. Hospitals should prioritise contractors with experience in hospital demolitions, compliance with regulations and safety standards, knowledge of hazardous materials and remediation, understanding of infection control measures, and effective project management and communication skills. By considering these factors, hospitals can appoint a demolition contractor who can deliver a demolition project that meets their specific needs while prioritising safety and minimising disruptions to patient care.

 

By choosing Weaver Demolition, hospitals can benefit from full program integration, a single point of contact for all decontamination, demolition and alteration works, and the assurance of working with a fully accredited and reputable contractor. Our ISO accreditations ensure we deliver best value, program efficiency and full compliance with health & safety, environmental and quality standards.

Demolition services in the South West, Cornwall & Devon since 1968

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