| Dust and noise mitigation were a major priority because construction occurred in and around Holyoke Hospital’s sterile core. Dust partitions were constantly checked for tightness and maintained in order to meet hospital requirements for a durable and cleanable surface. Temporary partitions were covered in “the board”, allowing for easy cleaning due to its smooth surface. Ante rooms were created for entering and leaving the construction space and proved effective in preventing any contaminants from entering into the hospital environment.
Off-hours shifts were used to help minimize any disruption to the users of the operating rooms. Relocation of the med-gas main lines was accomplished off-hours by having all the new piping in place and a certifier on site. Work continued throughout the night and by the next morning, the hospital had certified and usable systems. Coordination proved very effective and during the two years of construction use of the operating rooms was never postponed or cancelled due to construction
The project team and the hospital staff were in constant communication and established a schedule that allowed for construction and operations to work together cooperatively. Construction around the operating rooms was stopped at any time to avoid disrupting ongoing procedures and work would continue in other locations. A very clean and safe project site was necessary at all times around the operating rooms and the project team continuously worked with the hospital staff to maintain a clean and safe site while maintaining Infectious Disease Control standards.
Barr & Barr firmly believes that every project should have a positive effect on the local community and economy. This belief, while always tempered with respect to the guiding forces of project quality, budget and schedule, is at the core of our philosophical beliefs. For the Surgical Suite, Renovations and Addition, our proven track record of utilizing local contractors was demonstrated as we were able to place smaller local contractors in positions where they could provide their services to the project without overtaxing their capabilities to perform. By setting up bid packages of the correct size to maximize local participation, Barr & Barr’s efforts resulted in 65% of the contracts going to local contractors
The close working relationships with Holyoke Hospital, Payette Associates and local subcontractors ultimately created a working environment that exceeded the hospital’s expectations. In the end, Holyoke Hospital’s new modern facilities will allow it grow and better serve the community around it.
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