Equipment drives the design
X-ray, ultrasound, CT, MRI and mammography each have their own requirements for room size, power, cooling and structure. The equipment supplier provides the room requirements, and those drawings set the layout, the door sizes and the services.
We review them early, since late changes can mean reopening walls or floors.
Shielding and structure
X-ray and CT rooms need radiation shielding in walls, doors and sometimes floors and ceilings, specified by a qualified specialist. MRI rooms need magnetic and radio-frequency shielding. Shielding must be continuous, so wiring and ducts that pass through walls are carefully detailed.
Heavy equipment adds floor loading, and some units need reinforced slabs or special routes for delivery. Our in-house engineering helps review structural needs.
Because our electrical, mechanical and interior trades are our own, penetrations through shielded walls are planned and sealed by the same team that cuts them, which helps keep shielding intact.
Power and cooling
Imaging equipment draws large, steady power and gives off heat. Our Master Electrician-led crew installs dedicated feeders, panels, grounding and lighting, and our mechanical crew designs cooling and ventilation for each room and for control areas.
MRI suites also need controlled temperature and humidity, which our HVAC team coordinates with the equipment supplier.
Patient experience
Imaging can be stressful. Changing rooms, washrooms, quiet waiting areas and calm lighting help patients relax. Privacy is also essential, so we build walls to the deck and use quality doors.
Our low voltage team installs data cabling for image transfer, as well as cameras, alarms and access control.
Planning notes
Lead times for equipment and shielding can be long, and delivery paths such as doors and corridors must be clear. Confirm landlord rules for heavy equipment and shielding early, and involve HSM before signing a lease so the space can be checked against the equipment requirements.