The new module will be used to relocate the Central Sterile Services Department (CSSD), which cleans, decontaminates and sterilises medical equipment and instruments used in operating theatres – a service essential to The QEH Theatres department and the life-saving operations they perform every day.
Arriving in 39 separate sections over the next five days, the sections of the modular building will be craned into position by a specialist team.
Currently the CSSD is in a building built of Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concreated (RAAC). Despite temporary failsafing work that has already taken place in this department, this area needs further support and need to be replaced.
Paul Brooks, Director of Estates and Facilities, said: “The arrival of this new modular building is a positive step in our RAAC failsafe programme. This department is essential to the life-saving work our clinicians perform every day. Without it there would be a significant loss in the services we can offer at The QEH. Our teams have been working hard to plan for the arrival of this new module, ensuring its arrival causes as little disruption as possible.”
Planning permission for the new unit was granted at the end of 2024 and it is expected to be operational from summer 2025. This building remain on the site when the New QEH is built.
The building is being added to an area to the west of The QEH site, accessible via the service road. Whilst the crane is in situ, and work is ongoing, there are marshals in place to direct traffic and pedestrians as needed. Whilst the service road remains open through the work, those wishing to enter The QEH site are asked to do so via the main entrance where possible to reduce congestion in the area.
Ends. Notes to editors; For media enquiries only, please contact Communications Team, media.enquiries@qehkl.nhs.uk or 01553 613216. For all other enquiries, please contact QEH Switchboard on 01553 613613.
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