Delivering construction and refurbishment works in an active intensive care environment demands ongoing stakeholder engagement, precision, innovation and an unwavering focus on patient safety.  

We recently delivered a full refurbishment of all Intensive Care Unit (ICU) pods for our client Royal North Shore Hospital creating a modern, functional space that supports exceptional patient care while maintaining uninterrupted clinical operations.

The ICU pod refurbishments were required to improve patient care outcomes, meet updated compliance standards, strengthen infection control measures whilst also satisfying asset lLifecycle replacement criteria. The works needed to be delivered within a tight timeframe and, critically, without disrupting adjacent ICU pods or compromising the safety of patients and clinical staff.

We managed the project end to end, coordinating demolition and refurbishment works while maintaining strict infection control protocols throughout the live hospital environment. The scope included the installation of new vinyl flooring and wall protection, servicing of medical service panels and pendants, upgrades to the nurse call system, and integration of updated electrical and plumbing services.

A carefully planned staging approach enabled multiple trades to work efficiently and safely within the pod, while ensuring neighbouring ICU spaces remained fully operational. 

Going Above and Beyond

To minimise disruption to clinical operations, the team worked extended hours and coordinated elements of the project outside normal working times. 

Additional dust, noise and infection control measures were implemented beyond standard requirements, providing an extra layer of protection in this highly sensitive environment.

We also maintained open and transparent communication with hospital operations staff and the Executive team, providing real time progress updates and adapting schedules as needed. As a result, all works were completed within a significantly reduced timeframe, with no impact on the functionality of adjacent ICU pods.

Innovation in Action

A key innovation on the project was the decision to restore existing ceramic basins rather than replace them. Using a drill brush cleaning system, the team successfully removed scratches and stains, returning the basins to an as new condition. This approach reduced costs, avoided unnecessary replacement and significantly cut material waste.

Innovative planning also played a crucial role. A clear staging plan was developed and shared with the client from the outset, enabling multiple trades to work simultaneously without interfering with one another. This careful coordination shortened the program while maintaining safe, compliant and efficient delivery.

A Sustainable Approach

Sustainability was embedded throughout the refurbishment. Refurbishing the existing basins reduced waste and material consumption, while demolition materials were segregated and recycled wherever possible to minimise landfill impact. Material orders were also carefully managed to avoid excess and unnecessary waste, supporting our broader commitment to sustainable practices across our projects. 

The refurbished ICU Pod now provides a modern, efficient and compliant space dedicated to the care of critically ill patients. Enhanced infection control measures, improved access to essential equipment to support both patient outcomes and staff wellbeing. The high-quality finish has delivered a space that not only performs well operationally but also looks and feels fit for purpose.

What Our People and Clients Say

“This project demonstrated our ability to deliver high quality outcomes in a sensitive clinical environment, ensuring patient safety while meeting tight deadlines. It also showcased how effectively we work as a team and strengthened the hospital’s trust in us by proving that we can deliver on our commitments.”

– Project Lead, Ventia

“The refurbishment of Pod 6E went very smoothly. The builders’ clean was one of the best we’ve ever seen, which made the HealthShare deprox clean much easier and allowed the pod to open a couple of days earlier than expected. We also really appreciated the team’s flexibility and communication throughout the project.”

– Royal North Shore Hospital