With a need to refurbish three existing operating theatres, and replace their “ageing” plant, the Children’s University Hospital, Dublin called on VtV Solutions, a specialist in upgrading operating departments and validating ultra-clean ventilation systems, to help it devise a scheme that would ensure continuing use of as many theatres as possible.
Via the use of modular plant rooms built off-site, and production of detailed specifications and drawings to be used to tender the works for all “builder’s work” and mechanical and electrical services, the scheme ran to programme. Anne Tynan, theatre manager, said: “The scheme came in within budget, finishing earlier than anticipated, and we were able to carry out nearly 400 operations during the phased works.” VtV Solutions’ design included all services associated with operating theatres, and the equipping of three modular plantrooms to house new AHUs, electrical boards, IPS/UPS equipment, and a heat exchanger. Internal works included new doors, wall cladding, floors, ceilings, lighting, electrical power outlets, surgeon’s lights, and medical gas pendants. All “long lead time” items were purchased or built off-site to avoid delays once the theatres were closed.