2024
Birmingham
BACKGROUND
The Queen Elizabeth Hospital embarked on a complex refurbishment of its Accident & Emergency (A&E) apron area to enhance its structural integrity and functionality. This critical area experiences high volumes of traffic, including emergency vehicles, making its durability and performance essential. The refurbishment involved multiple specialist works, ensuring the area remained operational while addressing key structural and waterproofing concerns.
THE CHALLENGES
The project required the removal and replacement of existing deck waterproofing systems, exposed concrete repairs, rectification of spalling, installation of a new drainage system, and the application of new joint systems. Due to the hospital's 24/7 operations, minimising disruption was a top priority. The project needed to be carefully phased to allow essential works to progress while ensuring the hospital’s emergency services remained fully operational.
Additionally, the refurbishment demanded strict adherence to health and safety standards, including dust and noise control, environmental considerations, and traffic management. Substrate preparation and testing were also crucial to ensure the successful application of the new waterproofing system.
THE SOLUTION
To prepare the surface, existing coatings were removed using ride-on-planing machines. Hammer testing identified concrete areas in need of repair, while pull-off tests ensured the substrate’s suitability for the new deck waterproofing system. To optimize adhesion, edge preparation was meticulously carried out before the application of Sika RB28 resin, a key component of the waterproofing solution.
Dust extraction systems and strategically placed noise barriers minimized the impact of construction on hospital staff and patients. Environmental assessments were conducted regularly to monitor dust and noise levels. Health and safety remained a priority throughout, with strict compliance to COSHH regulations, continuous monitoring of substrate conditions, and the presence of a qualified banksman to oversee material and personnel management. A specialist traffic management company was also engaged to ensure safe routes for both vehicles and pedestrians during each phase.
Sustainability and environmental care were key considerations, with responsible waste management practices ensuring excess materials were properly disposed of. The project was successfully completed in eight carefully planned phases, allowing hospital operations to continue uninterrupted.
Thanks to detailed planning, precision execution, and the use of high-performance Sika waterproofing solutions, the refurbishment of the A&E apron area at Queen Elizabeth Hospital was completed successfully. The project met all technical and operational requirements while ensuring patient care remained unaffected.
PROJECT PARTICIPANTS
Products Used: Sikafloor® Pronto RB-28
Client: Balfour Beatty
Contractor: Cemplas