GRAHAM construction, Hinchingbrooke Hospital

The NHS has never been more widely needed and valued than it is right now - we are proud to be doing our part to keep hospitals and care facilities safe.

Contracted by GRAHAM Group in 2019, we are continuing to deliver various passive fire protection works at Hinchingbrooke Hospital in Huntingdon, including compartmentation surveys, fire door replacement and remediation, and fire stopping.

Scope of work

Checkmate has been contracted to deliver various passive fire protection works at Hinchingbrooke Hospital, including compartmentation surveys, fire door replacement and remediation, and fire stopping. Taking into account the fire strategy of the building, the prioritisation of works across the hospital area has been set according to risk. Working as the principal sub-contractor to the main contractor, Grahams Construction, the buildings have been highlighted into 3 priority areas.

Programme of work

The project initially began as works to a single ward, following a Fire Risk Assessment (FRA).  Satisfied with our delivery, the client requested further additional works to be added as the scope of works expanded.  Checkmate has now provided works to c.35 wards and associated corridors throughout the hospital.  Displaying industry expertise, we have worked in many sensitive areas such as plant rooms, electrical rooms and externals to operating theatres.

Approach and methodology

Our relationship with both the principal contractor and the trust is a strong one, that has developed well over the last year.  Our day to day operations are managed through Grahams Construction and joint client progress meetings.  Checkmate are responsible for surve, through to estimate of works and completion.

Responsive Works

Adjusting to reactive works is a common occurrence.  For instance, another contractor may have worked in the same area, and upon completion, additional fire stopping works have been immediately required to ensure continued safety.

Environment challenges & risks

Working within an active hospital environment, there are a number of key challenges, including:

• Restrictions on access
• Busy working corridors requiring diversion of people traffic
• Security and safety
• Fall back areas for contingency where works have to be halted for any reason
• Adjustments to programme for Covid-19
• Reduced working day, due to later start on sensitive wards or areas where patients sleep
• Noise control
• Consideration for stakeholders in work area