Johnstaff Projects on behalf of West Gippsland Healthcare Group engaged INTREC to deliver the construction of a new eight bed Short Stay Unit (SSU), Third Operating Theatre (TOT) and 50-bay car park, as well as the design and implementation of a new Nurse Call System at Warragul Hospital, located in regional Victoria. Constructed on concrete columns, with a suspended concrete slab and steel structure above, the Short Stay Unit saw the delivery of eight short stay beds, a staff base and offices. Extensive external car park works were also undertaken in front of the existing hospital building, creating more efficient access for the growing number of patients and visitors at the hospital.
The Third Operating Theatre was built over three levels, inclusive of a Third Operating Theatre and a plantroom, constructed in conjunction with an anaesthetic bay, set-up bay, equipment bay and new offices. Working within a live hospital environment was a considerable risk throughout the project’s duration. This environment highlighted the importance of clear and concise signage, frequent communication with patients, staff and visitors, as well as the significance of stringent traffic management implementations when working adjacent to an ambulance bay.
The construction of the SSU and TOT will meet increasing demand for elective and emergency surgery from the West Gippsland Healthcare Group growing Gippsland population; expanding capacity, improving efficiency and reducing waiting times for treatment. Recognising the need for local employment in Warragul was a vital part of acknowledging our responsibilities as a building partner on this project. Local subcontractors not only provide a wealth of knowledge to our regional works, but they are familiar with the surroundings and the local suppliers and businesses. INTREC are proud to have been a key player in the development of these Health facilities to the Warragul community, in an upgrade that will continue to benefit the patients and staff of the hospital for many years to come.
