How is modular construction benefitting the healthcare sector?
The last few years have seen the NHS fall under significant pressure as a result of staffing shortages, lack of funding, and a long backlog of patients. In order to overcome the needs of both healthcare providers and patients, affordable and innovative solutions are key.
In recent years, the use of modular buildings has increased and they have been a trailblazer, offering a cost-effective and operational way to revolutionise infrastructure. Here, we explore how modular construction is changing the healthcare industry for the better and how it will continue to be an adaptable fix for the future.
Tackles capacity concerns
One of the largest problems faced by the healthcare industry is lack of space. With health clinics operating way beyond their designated capabilities, overcrowding is almost a given that can ultimately lead to poorer patient care.
Modular building hire provides a quick and efficient workaround by supporting the expansion of facilities and the construction of new sites. This produces additional vaccination centres, health wards, and treatment rooms that are still set up with the necessary equipment. If the demand then increases or decreases, the numbers of these buildings can be adjusted appropriately.
Minimises disruption
Since most of the manufacturing process of modular buildings occurs offsite in a controlled environment, there is minimal disruption to current healthcare facilities. Furthermore, this reduces the financial impact on operations and means estimated costs and budgets can be controlled more easily.
What’s more, there is a lessened risk of delays due to site constraints and adverse weather conditions that you’d typically find with conventional construction methods.
Reduces carbon emissions
The UK healthcare industry contributes around 5% of the UK’s overall carbon emissions, with the NHS accounting for 40% of this alone. And with demand growing more and more, decarbonising the sector is a priority, especially if we are to reach carbon neutrality.
Modular construction overcomes these worries by using environmentally friendly materials, such as timber and steel, as opposed to carbon-intensive resources like concrete and bricks. In addition, less waste is generated from production and vehicle movements are cut down.
More recently, modular architecture has been designed with energy-efficient lighting and solar panels that will further reduce operational costs and carbon emissions over their lifetime.
Improved quality and hygiene control
As mentioned previously, modular buildings are fabricated in controlled factory environments. This minimises the risk of contamination, guaranteeing the high levels of hygiene required for healthcare services. These structures also tend to have hygienic finishes that are hardwearing and easy to clean after use.
Features such as specialist lighting, specialised medical gas systems, and noise-reduction materials help to provide additional wards and operating theatres with the conditions needed.
