As the country rushed to prepare itself for the rise in patient admissions due to COVID-19, MIG was simultaneously coordinating two highly complex NHS hospital projects in North Wales.
Over the space of just 14 days, the global healthcare engineering specialist helped to convert a Bangor University sports centre into the 223-bed field hospital, Rainbow Hospital Bangor.
At the same time, MIG worked to convert the Deeside Leisure Centre in Queensferry. Renamed Rainbow Hospital Deeside, the project included digging out and demolishing an ice rink and skate park to house 418 beds.
Relying on decades of experience in outstanding project management, MIG delivered a full fit-out of Oxygen Medical Gas Pipeline systems throughout both temporary facilities.
The company also installed terminal units to allow for adequate air flow to ventilators for patients to use, including a gas alarm system and pressure testing before signing off.
MIG project manager Josh Swindells said: “The time pressure was enormous. We were dealing with logistical challenges that often required us to develop instant solutions on the day.
“This could mean driving to pick up parts in person instead of booking couriers, or drawing out design and installation workarounds with M&E consultants.”
With both projects commissioned on the Saturday of the Easter Bank Holiday, MIG were on site just 48 hours later, starting work on Easter Monday.
Each site had a team of 14 installers to carry out the full works, with more than 7000 metres of piping and 650 terminal units installed during both projects in the space of 2 weeks.
The projects followed MIG’s previous work in supplying 150 beds to NHS Nightingale Hospital North West on an extremely short lead time.
“We had 14 days to get both projects done and we managed to achieve it,” said Josh. “It was very much a case of getting on with it regardless of the challenges. The projects really brought everyone together.”
This has been an enormously challenging period for the healthcare sector, which is why we developed a range of products and services to help fight the coronavirus crisis. This includes initial Piped Oxygen Systems Testing through to the full fit-out of medical facilities, whether they be stand-alone or situated within an existing building.
