Introduction
The Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital (RNOH) secured charitable donations to invest in state-of-the-art diagnostic technology to support the complex cases the hospital is internationally recognised for. Central to this was the procurement of a new EOS Edge scanner, with additional capacity for a DEXA bone density scanner and a Hi-Rise scanner. A new imaging department was required to house this advanced equipment and provide modern, patient-friendly facilities.
Client Background
RNOH is one of the world’s leading specialist orthopaedic hospitals, providing a comprehensive range of neuro-musculoskeletal healthcare. The Trust needed a high-quality imaging department to match its clinical reputation and deliver improved diagnostics for patients with complex needs.
Project Scope
Friargreen was appointed as principal contractor to deliver a complete new imaging department within the Margaret Harte Ward. The works involved:
- A full strip-out of the designated area to prepare for redevelopment.
- A complete fit-out to create modern clinical, staff, and patient spaces.
- Creation of three imaging rooms, housing:
- An EOS Edge scanner.
- A DEXA bone density scanner.
- A Hi-Rise scanner.
- Delivery of supporting facilities including staff accommodation, reporting rooms, reception, and waiting areas.
- Extensive groundworks to rectify a failed retaining wall.
- Construction of a new external terrace to house mechanical plant.
- Building a new external plant room containing two HTM 03-01 compliant air handling units, supported by LTHW and chilled water systems.
- Installation of a new feeder pillar from the hospital’s main switch room to the plant terrace to supply all electrical services for the new scheme.
Challenges
The project was delivered in a live hospital environment, presenting significant logistical and technical challenges:
- The site was landlocked, accessed only via a steep sloped corridor.
- All excavation spoil and construction materials had to be moved on pallets and motorised forklifts, requiring meticulous planning and sequencing.
- Large mechanical plant items required careful handling and movement in restricted conditions.
Solutions
Friargreen worked collaboratively with the hospital and consultants to ensure safe and efficient delivery by:
- Developing a logistics plan to manage movement of all materials and spoil in and out of the constrained site.
- Breaking down plant equipment where necessary and transporting it to location using in-house specialist transport and wheel sets, carried out by our own engineers.
- Working closely with System Air UK and their design team in Denmark to develop a first-of-its-kind Geniox AHU capable of providing dehumidification, a key requirement of the project design. This innovation demonstrated Friargreen’s commitment to pushing the boundaries and delivering cost-effective, reliable solutions.
- Sequencing works to minimise disruption to live hospital operations.
- Coordinating with specialist suppliers for the installation of highly technical imaging equipment.
- Installing a robust mechanical and electrical infrastructure, future-proofed to support specialist imaging facilities.
- Ensuring all works met stringent NHS standards for safety, quality, and compliance.
Outcome
The project was delivered successfully, creating a new state-of-the-art imaging department that RNOH staff describe as the best facility within the hospital. Key achievements included:
- A modern, patient-friendly environment with a welcoming reception and waiting area.
- Purpose-built imaging rooms to accommodate the latest diagnostic technology.
- Comfortable and efficient staff reporting rooms and support facilities.
- A high-quality fit-out that reflects the prestige of the hospital and its clinical excellence.
- A fully engineered plant and infrastructure solution supporting the department with compliant air handling, heating, cooling, and electrical resilience.
- Introduction of an innovative, custom-designed Geniox AHU with dehumidification, marking a UK first.
Impact
The new imaging department provides:
- A world-class diagnostic environment that supports the hospital’s complex orthopaedic case load.
- A fantastic facility for staff, enhancing working conditions and efficiency.
- A relaxing and welcoming environment for patients, improving their hospital experience.
- A showcase project for the Trust, demonstrating the impact of charitable donations on patient care.
- A benchmark example of how collaboration and innovation can achieve clinical, technical, and financial success.
Conclusion
By overcoming significant logistical challenges and working sensitively within a live hospital environment, Friargreen delivered a facility that sets a new benchmark for imaging at the Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital. The Margaret Harte Ward Imaging Department not only supports advanced diagnostics but also provides a high-quality, patient-centred environment that will serve staff and patients for years to come.
