EBS Case Studies

Project Description

A new purpose built unit to provide secure Mental Health In-Patient Facilities for the Cornwall Partnership NHS Trust to serve the West Cornwall area. The new building incorporates specialist facilities including an Assessment Suite, Therapy Unit and Elderly Care Unit. EIC were appointed by Amec Capital Projects as the Mechanical & Electrical Services contractor and acted as a proactive member of the team throughout the construction phase.

Scope of works

The new unit has been designed as a standalone building on the existing Community Hospital site.

Electrical Services
A new mains electricity service was provided with purpose built LV mains panel. Standby power was provided through the existing site generator. Sub mains distribution was extended via service voids to local area boards serving small power, lighting and emergency lighting. An addressable fire alarm system was provided with interface control links to mechanical plant and access control systems. Specialist electrical systems included a nurse call system with patient call and staff attack alarm facility, door alarm system, keypad access and video door entry system.

Project Overview

Mechanical Services
Mechanical services systems comprised the provision of a gas fired central boiler plant serving an under floor heating system. A new mains cold water service was provided to serve a central storage tank with boosted hot and cold water services providing the domestic water systems to the unit. TMV3 point of use thermostatic mixing valves were utilised throughout. Decentralised ventilation systems provide local extract to en-suite shower rooms, disabled bathrooms, toilets and other internal areas.

A central supply air system was installed to provide tempered fresh air to internal administration areas and central communal dining rooms.

A purpose built management system was installed to provide control of the mechanical services systems and local touch screen control is provided for monitoring and adjustment of the underfloor heating system.

Special Requirements

Due to the nature of the facility - a severe mental illness unit, all surface fixings were required to be security type and all equipment
including light fittings, sanitary fittings, showers etc were specially selected for their antiligature design. Other accessories including switch plates, sockets etc were selected to provide resistance in robust use. Other accessories including switch plates, sockets etc were selected to provide resistance in robust use.