Health Technical

Memorandum 2023
Good practice guide

Access and accommodation

for engineering services

London : HMSO

An Executive Agency of the Department of Health

0 Crown copyright 1995
Applications for reproduction should be made to HMSO Copyright Unit
First published 1995

ISBN 0 11 322194 0

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About this publication

Health Technical Memoranda (HTMs) give HTM 2023 is published in two separate
comprehensive advice about the design, volumes, each addressing specific
installation and operation of specialised aspects:
building and engineering technology in
the delivery of healthcare. They are l Management policy - is
applicable to new and existing sites and intended for chief executives/
are for use at all stages during the general managers and other
inception, design, construction, senior managers who have overall
refurbishment and maintenance of a responsibility for access and
building. accommodation for engineering
services. It sets out statutory
HTM 2023 provides guidance on overall obligations, provides guidance on
responsibility for access and the space requirements for
accommodation for engineering services mechanical, electrical and public
as follows: health engineering services in
hospitals, and provides data to
a. legal and mandatory assess the planning of those
requirements; requirements;

b. functional and design l this volume - Good practice

considerations; guide - provides guidance on the
engineering services access,
c. validation and verification; zoning and plantrooms, assesses
the space requirements and
d. operational management. clearances of pipework and
ventilation ductwork, and relates
plantroom areas to plant capacity.
Contents

About this publication

1. Introduction page 3

2. General considerations page 4

3. Preliminary plan areas for engineering

plantrooms page 7

4. Engineering distribution principles page 9

5. Common distribution requirements page 10

6. Site primary service distribution space

requirements page 12

7. Plantrooms page 17

8. The zoning and routing of primary services in the

hospital street vertical shafts page 29

9. Service distribution within departments page 30

10. Definitions page 36

Figures page 38

References page 81

Other publications in this series page 83

About NHS Estates page 84

1.0 Introduction

1.1 Thisvolume of Health Technical Memorandum (HTM) 2023 gives general

guidance on the space requirements for mechanical, electrical and public health
engineering services in hospitals and provides data to assist in the planning of
those requirements. It relates services areas to hospital total floor areas, and
assesses the space requirements and clearances of pipework and ventilation
ductwork. Zoning principles are illustrated for a typical hospital services
installation.

1.2 Maintenance of building services can only be carried out satisfactorily if

adequate space for access is provided. This document establishes some basic rules
and principles for the allocation of space and engineering service distribution in a
hospital, and illustrates how a systematic approach can improve design
coordination and service installation on site.

1.3 The data given is intended to assist in ensuring that space provision for
future schemes is adequate to enable easy installation and allow convenient
access and sufficient working space for maintenance, renewal and possible
extension of the services.

1.4 The guidance in this HTM is based on information obtained from engineers
in the NHS, NHS Estates and consulting engineers, and is specially intended for
use during the initial stages of design when specific dimensional details of plant
may not be available.

1.5 Variations in the structural system, department layout and engineering

services provision will influence the extent to which this guidance can be applied.
Individual project solutions may differ, although most should be able to adopt the
principles of zoning and spacing for the services outlined in this document.

Previous page
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2.0 General considerations

2.1 A modern hospital may require 50 or more different engineering services,

and others may be added later as new techniques are developed. Hospital
buildings can be expected to have a useful life of at least 60 years and during this
period engineering services will have to be renewed. Unless adequate space is
provided initially, the cost of renewing services will be excessive and their
extension may be impossible.

Development planning

2.2 With the increasing complexity of modern hospital services, it is more than
ever essential that the engineering and architectural aspects of a project are
developed simultaneously from its inception.

2.3 The purpose of early collaboration is to ensure that the planning of medical
requirements and communications is properly integrated with the following
engineering aspects:
a. services distribution;
b. plant location;

c. future development.

2.4 At the earliest stages of planning, designs should be based on an overall

conception of the complete scheme. It is essential to foresee as far as possible
what provisions should be made for the passage of services, through different
parts of the structure, not only for present requirements but also for possible
future developments. It is important to ensure that any construction does not
preclude the accommodation of further services in the future.

2.5 Engineering services are necessarily continuous, and must not be obstructed
by structural design which might restrict such continuity. The effect of any such
obstruction will be felt far beyond its own locality, and may effectively isolate
large areas of buildings from services.

2.6 It is therefore most important that the basic structural design should permit
sufficient space for the services, and all such space must be regarded as inviolable.
Difficulties in this area will be minimised if the services engineer is responsible for
public health engineering.

2.7 The provision of extra space for future plant and services should be related
to the probable requirements. If there is little likelihood of an increase the extra
space allowed should be minimal, but a margin of up to one third above the net
basic requirement may well be justified. Possible developments in the remote
future should be dealt with at the time of their design.

2.8 The development of detailed engineering drawings will produce accurate

information on service space requirements, but these will not be available until a
later stage. If a satisfactory estimate of space requirements can be-made during
the preparation of the sketch plans, serious and costly revisions will be avoided.

2.9 Component data is not included in this document due to the wide variation
in sizes between manufacturers. The designer should make reference to actual
manufacturers’ data including drawings of the specific components or assembly

4
2.0 General considerations

of components, for example air handling units, boilers, switchgear. Reference

may also be made to British Standards for specific components and BSRIA
technical note TN10702 which provides space requirements for a number of
common service components.

2.10 Plant requirements will depend upon the design solution for the type,
design and function of the building. Consideration should be given to the
following points:

a. services and plant to be accommodated;

b. optimum siting, in terms of distribution and the effect on adjacent
accommodation;
c. optimum size;

d. floor loading when plant is fixed and during installation;

e. space and access requirements for installation and possible subsequent

renewal;

f. space and access requirements for proper and safe operation and
maintenance;

g. ventilation and combustion air;

h. adequate lighting and heating;

j. fire precautions;
k. safety requirements;

m. the possibility of noise nuisance;

n. heat insulation;
p. minimum heights;
q. drainage;
r. surface finishes,

Working in confined spaces

2.11 Working within confined spaces should be covered by a “permit-to-work

system” covering safe working practices in accordance with the
“permit-to-work”. Reference should be made to Health and Safety Guidance
Note GS5, ‘Entry to Confined Spaces’. The guidance note covers spaces where
there is a possibility of a build-up of gas or vapour, or where there is likely to be a
deficiency of oxygen.

2.12 The presence of asbestos products within a site will require

implementation of following approved codes of practice: ‘The Control of
Asbestos at Work Regulations 1987’ and ‘Work with asbestos insulation, asbestos
coating and asbestos insulating board, 1988’.

2.13 Where no “permit-to-work” system is in operation, it is important to

ensure the work is undertaken only after a full investigation and resolution of the
following matters has been completed, and the engineer has been informed in
writing of the proposals:

a. assessment of the task to be undertaken;

b. identification of the hazards of the task;
c. decision on methods of working to avoid hazards;
2.0 General considerations

d. implementation of a system of work to incorporate these methods;

e. monitoring of the operation of the system of work.

2.14 Prior to the entry of personnel into the space and the commencement of
work, the space must be demonstrated to be safe by testing that no toxic or
asphyxiant gases are present and that oxygen levels are adequate.

Fire

2.15 Guidance on fire precautions is contained in the Department of Health’s Firecode - Fire precautions in NHS
Firecode. Fire safety requirements should be established prior to commencement premises issued with letter ref
of any services design work as the particular disposition of sub-compartment SHHD/DGM (1988) 61
walls, cavity barriers and other physical fire precautions may influence the service Scottish Office (NHS in Scotland
distribution and routing. Management Executive) Firecode in
Scotland - Policy and Principles, HMSO
1994 - NHS MEL (1994) 35

6
3.0 Preliminary plan areas for
engineering plantrooms

General
3.1 This section provides guidance on initial plan areas for engineering services.

3.2 The information is based on data obtained from existing sites and new
hospital schemes. Measured service areas have been discussed with the design
engineers and confirmed or revised in the light of experience, and where possible
an inspection of the accommodation was made. The data given is intended to be
used during the early planning stages in conjunction with schedules of
accommodation. Figure 1 may be used before drawings are available, and Figures
2 to 8 will assist during more detailed planning.

Total engineering plan area (Figure 1)

3.3 The plan areas shown are for complete hospitals and the point of selection
within the band should be related to:
a. the number and complexity of services;
b. the shape and layout of buildings, which largely determines the amount of
ventilation required;
c. the basic design of services, for example central or decentralised calorifiers;
electrical HV or MV distribution.

3.4 The gross area referred to on Figure 1 is the sum of basic and additional
accommodation plus the circulation and communication areas, but does not
include engineering service areas.

3.5 Selection within the band will depend on the number of services to be
provided, and any special requirements for each service. The value obtained from
the graph should be checked against the sum of the areas required by the
separate services.

Calorifier room plan area (Figure 2)

3.6 It should be noted that several decentralised plantrooms require

considerably more space than one central room (but there may be some savings
in distribution services). The most appropriate policy for a particular hospital can
be determined by a financial appraisal of each option.

Ventilation plantroom plan area (Figure 3)

3.7 Ventilation requirements will depend upon the type of building, for example
the number of internal rooms and the extent to which full air conditioning is to be
provided.

3.8 The plan area for low level buildings with little mechanical ventilation will
fall well below the band shown on Figure 3, and the area required for a hospital
wholly or largely air conditioned will be well above it. An individual assessment
will be necessary in such instances.
3.0 Preliminary plan areas for engineering plantrooms

Lift wells and motor rooms plan area (Figures 4 and 5)

3.9 The area required for lift wells and motor rooms is related to the number of
floors served. The band width indicates the variation due to service requirements.
For example, office accommodation does not require a bed lift, but a block with a
number of operating theatres may require several. Reference should be made to
HTM 2024 - ‘Lifts’ for further details on the design of lifts.

Vertical ducts plan area (Figure 6)

3.10 The requirement for vertical ducts will depend upon the number and size
of ventilation ducts and piped services to be accommodated, but shows no
appreciable relationship to building height.

Water storage plan area (Figure 7)

3.11 Figure 7 is based on examples where nearly all of the storage is internal.
The band width is attributable to variation in tank depth and the estimated daily
consumption.

Switchroom plan area (Figure 8)

3.12 Figure 8 does not include accommodation for HV switchgear and

transformers (for which HTM 2007 - ‘Electrical services: supply and distribution’
shows dimensioned layouts). The graph shows the approximate area required
when space is specifically allocated for switchrooms.
4.0 Engineering distribution
principles

4.1 The main engineering distribution principles, which are illustrated on the
exemplar hospital layout in Figures 9 and 10, are as follows:

a. each block may be serviced from the hospital street/corridor unless internal
ducts are appropriate for a specialist department, for example pathology or
operating theatres;
b. services (except drainage) will be contained within the particular floor they
serve, to minimise penetrations of the building structure between floors;
c. services to each department floor will have the means of isolation at the
hospital street interface;
d. the routing of the main engineering services to the departments and
plantrooms will be within or above the hospital street;
e. major items of plant may be located:
(i) as a separate enclosure off the hospital street or service street (but not
part of, or combine with, a life risk department);
(ii) in a discreet enclosure remote from the main building block;
(iii) above the hospital street;

(iv) at roof level above a block;

f. access to plantrooms will be achieved via general access stairways and a
covered walkway above the hospital street.
5.0 Common distribution requirements

General

5.1 The assessment of requirements must be considered with respect to

communication, areas, plant and distribution, and be related to the site, size and
shape of buildings. Accommodation for vertical services will be decided during
the preparation of the development plan. This information will be in the form of
total areas required, to be sub-divided later as design work proceeds.

Distribution

5.2 As far as is practicable, departments that impose a heavy load on the

engineering services should be grouped and located near to the main distribution
centres to avoid long runs of large capacity mains. It will generally be found
advantageous for services to follow the main communication routes.

Distribution to plantrooms

5.3 Generally, the first plantroom to be sited is the energy centre, so that the
main services routes can be determined. Energy centres are usually sited in a
service centre complex for the hospital, located centrally to the primary energy
users, although consideration may be given to siting at roof level.

5.4 The next step will be to decide the areas required for other plantrooms.

5.5 Consideration should be given to the degree of flexibility that is necessary to

allow for possible changes in the use of hospital departments.

5.6 In multi-storey buildings, a smaller number of large vertical ducts with

adequate provision for horizontal distribution above ceiling level and below
structural members may give the most flexible arrangement. A large number of
smaller vertical ducts with ceiling spaces for horizontal distribution as necessary,
will generally be less flexible.

5.7 The omission of space above ceilings produces the least flexible
arrangement.

5.8 Convenient access should be provided to all service spaces.

General access

5.9 Access to services, excluding requirements for initial installation, should be

considered for operation, maintenance and replacement.

Frequent access

5.10 Plant, valves, switchgear, and all equipment requiring frequent attention
for operation of the system or for maintenance, need immediate access. If
enclosed, access should be by hinged doors and adequate clearance should be
provided for ease of working on the equipment.

10
5.0 Common distribution requirements

Intermittent access

5.11 Items not in frequent use or requiring maintenance only at intervals of

some months, need ready access, which may be by means of floor traps or
removable panels in walls, partitions and false ceilings. It is recommended that
access panels be fixed by means of quick-release fasteners, such as carriage locks,
rather than by screws and cups,

5.12 Access should be arranged, as far as possible, to enable work to be carried

out without affecting hospital routine. Access points should be convenient to
items requiring attention, and in the case of rodding eyes sufficient space
provided to facilitate rodding of the pipework.

Renewal of services

5.13 Some services may have to be renewed once or twice during the useful life
of a building. Accommodation should be planned to allow for this and take into
account both weight and size of major items. Where emergency renewals are not
envisaged the removal of door frames, windows, and even partitions and non
structural walls may be considered. The renewal of minor items does not usually
create problems, except for pipe lengths and allowance should be made for
passing pipe lengths into the ducts at a later date.

5.14 The destruction of finishes to open up a trench or vertical duct or to

increase the size of an existing means of access could be more economical than
the provision of expensive, rarely used permanent access. The saving must be
considered with regard to the cost and inconvenience incurred at the time of
replacement.

11
6.0 Site primary service distribution
space requirements

General

6.1 This section presents, in tabular and diagrammatic form, information on the
space requirements for the distribution of site services, with suggested
arrangements.

6.2 Dimensions given will allow sufficient access to services for inspection,
adjustment or replacement. Where applicable, British Standards or British
Standard Codes of Practice should be complied with.

6.3 Dimensional allowances for lighting, drainage, wash down, ventilation,

power supply, access points and finishes are to be made as additions to the spaces
required for the services.

6.4 Detailed dimensions of access traps, doors, etc. are not given as these will
vary considerably with circumstances, but access clearances should not be less
than 450 mm square.

6.5 The main requirements are:

a. adequate space to operate valve controls;

b. unobstructed access to rodding eyes, etc;

c. easy access for inspection and maintenance;
d. sufficient space to enable repairs and replacements to be carried out;

e. entry points large enough for the passage of equipment, materials and
tools likely to be required during replacement and extension work, for
example pipes, valves, pumps, welding equipment, etc.

6.6 Where pipes, ducts, etc, are placed behind fully demountable ceilings, walls,
partitions etc, the provision for working space given here need not be allowed.
However, services in such positions should have access doors or traps for valves,
rodding eyes, etc.

Ducts showing accommodation space for services,

access and working space
6.7 Figure 11 illustrates four possible arrangements for installing services in
horizontal ducts. Dimensions will depend on the number and size of pipes and
fittings to be accommodated, and on ease of access for jointing, installation,
branches and maintenance.

6.8 All four spaces may be combined in any permutation conducive to economy,
good engineering practice, efficient distribution and access. The sizes of the
service areas can be calculated from Figures 15 to 20.

6.9 Consideration should be given to leaving a space or part of a space free to

allow for future increases in service loadings.

6.10 The clear space should allow convenient access to install and maintain
services (see Figures 12 to 14).

12
6.0 Site primary service distribution space requirements

6.11 The above arrangements are suitable for service corridors. It is preferable
to locate services to sides rather than overhead to allow access to the pipework
and cables.

Subways

6.12 Figure 12 shows engineering services accommodated on either side or

overhead as required. Figures 15 to 20 give the dimensions of service spaces
which are additional to the clearance space values listed in Table 1.

Table 1 Clear space dimensions

Dimensions Pedestrian Pedestrians Pedestrians

of free space use only and trolleys and powered vehicles

A 2.0 m 2.0 m *2.0 m

B 1.1 m 1.2 m *1.4m

* These dimensions and turning radii to suit type of powered vehicles.

6.13 Allowances must be made for any services which cross the subway. Extra
width in lay-bys must be included when the subway has to provide for two-way
traffic.

Crawlways

6.14 Figure 13 shows engineering services provided on either or both sides of a

duct, allowing minimum working space. Reference should be made to Figures 15
to 20 for the dimensions of service spaces, which should be added to the
dimensions shown.

6.15 Access should be provided at each end of the crawlway, for example from
plantrooms, and access openings with removable covers provided at intervals.
The distance between access points should be decided by consideration of the
particular circumstances and the installed services. When making provision for
access, consideration should be given to the removal and replacement of lengths
of pipe where this is practicable. The crawlway should be ventilated to provide
fresh air and prevent possible toxic gas build up or excessive ambient
temperatures.

Walkways
6.16 Figure 14 shows engineering services accommodated on either or both
sides of a walkway allowing clear space dimensions for movement and working.
Reference should be made to Figures 15 to 20 for the dimensions of service
spaces which should be added to the dimensions shown.

6.17 Access through removable covers should be provided at intervals to allow

for ventilation as well as the entry for materials, etc.

Pipework dimensions

6.18 Figure 13 indicates the clearances for pipes and valves to allow for
accommodation, servicing or renewal.

6.19 Table 2 lists the values of A and B (see Figures 15 to 19) for a series of pipes
and valves whether insulated (I) or uninsulated (U).

13
6.0 Site primary service distribution space requirements

Table 2 Pipes and valves, clearance dimensions

Pipe Dimension A Dimension B

dia (mm) (mm)
(d)
W elded
mm or Flanged Cast Iron Gas Water Steam
screwed
I U I U I U
80 350 300 350 350 350 300 475 600 650
100 375 325 400 375 375 325 550 700 800
150 475 425 475 425 425 400 700 800 950
225 600 - 600 550 550 475 750 1050 1325

Electrical tray and cable trunking

6.20 Figure 16 shows cable trays and trunking of nominal dimensions A and B,
and Table 3 indicates the minimum access space required for installation or
replacement of cables over the top, C, and at either or both sides, D.

Table 3 Dimensions of space requirements for trays and trunking

Trays Trunking
(mm) (mm)
A *B C D A B C D
100 12 225 225 75 50 225 225
150 12 225 225 100 100 225 225
300 18 300 450 150 150 225 225
450 18 300 450 225 100 225 225

* B is a nominal dimension and will vary according to manufacturer

6.21 For installation and replacement cable trays and trunking installed
vertically require front access of no less than dimension C. These minimum
dimensions are applicable only where a crawlway or walkway access is available.

Ventilation ducts

6.22 Figure 17 shows minimum areas required around ducts for access to
dampers and for making slip or flanged joints. See Figure 18 for clearance
dimensions C and D, for appropriate duct dimensions A and B.

Method of spacing services

6.23 Figure 19 shows a recommended arrangement for services in ducts.

6.24 Installation areas (taken from Figure 15) may overlap provided there is
reasonable access to services. The overlap should not exceed (A - d)/2 where A is
the clearance distance and d the diameter of the smaller pipe.

6.25 Double banking should be avoided as it will create difficulties with

maintenance or renewal of services.

6.26 If double banking is unavoidable, banked services should be paired (for

example flow and return) and the method of support should be such as to
facilitate access.
14
6.0 Site primary service distribution space requirements

Vertical ducts
6.27 Figure 20 shows typical vertical ducts of dimensions A x B with frontal
access for installation, maintenance and replacement of services.

6.28 The dimensions A and B will depend on the number and size of services to
be accommodated (allowing the clearance indicated in Figures 15 to 19).

6.29 Dimensions C and D will vary as follows:

a. with arrangement I, C will be equal to the full opening A and no clearance

depth D will be required as there is free access from outside the duct;
b. with arrangement II, C should ensure convenient access, and be not less
than 0.5 m. D can be the minimum necessary to clear valve projections;

c. with arrangement Ill, C and D should be at least 1.1 m and 0.75 m

respectively, and the access opening should have a minimal clearance width
E of 0.75 m and a clearance height of 1.8 m.

6.30 Rodding eyes should be easily accessible

Ha-ha and low-level piperuns -typical arrangement

6.31 Figures 21 and 22 show services carried on supports or hung from cross
members. Provision should be made for movement of pipework due to expansion
and contraction. The accommodation should allow for original installation,
maintenance and replacement of services. Provision should be made for drainage
of the ha-ha and for the clearing of falling leaves, etc.

Trenches

6.32 Figures 23 and 24 show services in trenches. The arrangement of services

accommodated in trenches will be dictated by the fact that installation can only
be carried out from above.

6.33 Trenches can be finished with cast in-situ concrete covers, or preformed
covers bedded in sealant and finished, for example, with screed or tarmac. The
exposure of the trench may require destruction of the finish (such as earth and
grass) to obtain access and renewal on completion of servicing.

6.34 If there is need for frequent access after installation the covers should be
readily removable precast units or filled metal trays.

6.35 When detailing trench runs, special attention should be given to the depth
of the trench to allow for cross-over points, falls in pipework and for drainage of
the trench floor. The strength of the covers should relate to their span and
anticipated traffic loadings.

Chases
6.36 Figure 25 shows services in chases. Chases are mainly used for
accommodating electrical conduits and smaller sized piped services, etc.

15
6.0 Site primary service distribution space requirements

6.37 The maximum depth of chases will be governed by the thickness and
properties of the material being chased. The width of chases will be limited by the
need to prevent cracking of plaster cover, etc, and should be mutually agreed by
architect and engineer.

6.38 An alternative is to use a trunking with removable covers which allows

convenient access for servicing and installing additional services.

16
7.0 Plantrooms

General

In Scotland see letter ref SHHD/DGM 7.1 The space requirements for the engineering plant and equipment must be
(1988)6 7; also Scottish Office (NHS in identified early in the design planning stage. For guidance on escape routes and
Scot/and Management Executive) escape route lighting, reference should be made to BS5266:Part 1:1988: ‘Code of
Firecode in Scotland - Policy and practice for emergency lighting’ with European amendment as introduced;
Principles HMSO 1994 - NHS MEL BS5499: ‘Fire safety signs, notices and graphic symbols; Firecode - Fire
(1994) 35 refers Building Standards precautions in NHS Premises.
(Scotland) regulations 1990 with
amendment
Ventilation plantrooms

7.2 Ventilation plant can best be accommodated at roof level. The space
allocation will depend on the extent to which ventilation is provided in the
departments which interface with the particular hospital street section. In the
exemplars, the ventilation plant serves only the department interfacing with the
hospital street above which it is located.

7.3 As the combinations of departments change to suit project needs so will the
space requirements for ventilation plant. It is therefore considered inappropriate
to prepare standard detailed plantroom layouts. General space provision for
various ventilation plant requirements have therefore been prepared in block
diagram format to provide basic planning advice.

7.4 Due consideration needs to be given to those departments which are almost
totally air conditioned or mechanically ventilated, and those which have 24-hour
or day (9 am to 5 pm) operation. The combinations of these will greatly influence
the number and size of the ventilation plants and therefore the space
requirements.

7.5 Where 24-hour-a-day departments are located together, and turn down
ratios are reasonable, a single ventilation plant may be the best choice. If turn
down is impracticable then separate plants will be necessary (see Figures 28, 29
and 31).

7.6 The ventilation plant space requirements for the operating department,
where individual plants per theatre suite are necessary and a separate plant is
required for the ancillary accommodation, are shown in Figures 34 to 37 inclusive.

7.7 Optional designs of plantrooms may accommodate boilers, calorifiers and

other plant (see Figures 40 to 42).

Clean and dirty extract plant

7.8 Ventilation plantrooms will also need to house the clean and dirty extract
fan units, and these may be floor or duct mounted. Exhausts from these units
must be positioned to discharge clear of air intake louvre and department
openable windows (see Figures 35 to 37).

7.9 Consideration should be given to the possibility of installing run-around

coils and associated equipment where heat recovery from these items is feasible.

17
7.0 Plantrooms

7.10 Fans for special extract systems conveying hazardous or toxic products may
need to be sited in ventilation plantrooms. The discharge from these systems
should be at high level to atmosphere-the height and location is to be
determined in consultation with the appropriate authority (Environmental Health
Officer, Health and Safety Executive).

7.11 Extract fans for the smoke extract hood systems are also located in these
plantrooms and they should discharge to atmosphere above the plantroom roof
level (see Figure 29).

High voltage sub-stations

7.12 Sub-stations should be accessible from a road to allow easy access for
transformer changing, fire appliances, maintenance vehicles, etc. There are safety
restrictions for personnel access to high voltage sub-stations, and emergency exit
doors of the approved “crash bar” type must be provided at regular 20 m
intervals, and be located in suitable places to prevent entrapment of personnel.

Layout

7.13 The cable trench layout should allow adequate space for pulling in and
terminating cables, and wall clearances for servicing switchgear or cubicles. The
size of the sub-station should be related to the anticipated total development,
either by building an unequipped extension for future additions or by locating
and designing the sub-station so that future building extension is possible.

7.14 Headroom should be sufficient to ensure adequate natural cooling and

space for luminaires and fire protection equipment; typical layouts are shown in
Figures 44 to 47. A work space should be provided at the end of the switchboard
for maintenance work on at least one circuit breaker. It is necessary to provide
sufficient headroom and a lifting beam to facilitate the removal of a transformer
from its tank while inside the chamber. In the event of an equipment fault it must
be possible for the transformer to be moved into the open air and a crane used.

7.15 Ring anchor fixing should be available for hauling transformers into
position or out to the open air.

7.16 The cable entries and ducts should be routed to avoid obstructing the
installation or removal of the transformer.

7.17 The following minimum clearances are recommended:

a. between transformer and wall - 1.0 m;

b. headroom above transformer tank - 1.6 m;
c. headroom above switchboard - 0.9 m;

d. between rear of HV and LV switchgear wall - 0.8 m;

e. at front of LV switchboard - 1 m vertically, and to the wall 2 m, for

horizontally isolated switching devices.

Ducts

7.18 Cable trenches and ducts should be constructed to avoid paths along
which surface water, leaking mineral oil or synthetic fluid will flow. If this is
unavoidable, or if cable entries or exits occur at or below ground level, then

18
7.0 Plantrooms

outside cover edges should be sealed with a suitable weather sealant. All outside
cable trench covers should be sealed against water penetration.

7.19 Cable trenches and ducts should have fire-resistant barriers provided in
accordance with Firecode.

Low voltage switchrooms

Siting

7.20 Switchrooms other than those associated with sub-stations should be sited
as close as possible to the load centre and arranged to allow convenient direct
entry to rising ducts, horizontal ducts, crawlways etc.

layout
7.21 The layout should allow adequate space around the switchboard for
servicing purposes. Suggested minimum clearances between the switchboard
and walls are 0.8 m minimum at the rear and 1 m in front, plus additional space
recommended by the manufacturer for withdrawing switchgear. Where provision
is made for bus-bars to be extended, adequate space should be allowed at one
end of the switchboard for this purpose.

Electrical switchgear

Located within roof level plantrooms

7.22 The distribution strategy proposed in Chapter 6 for the routing of the main
electrical cables suggests the optimum position of the sub-main switchgear to be
within the roof level ventilation plantrooms (see Figures 28 to 39). In this location,
good access for maintenance and repair can be provided without disturbing staff
or patients. The option to position the switchgear within the hospital street area
or another selected location is, however, still viable.

Access and maintenance

7.23 Sufficient space should be provided for normal operating access,

maintenance and plant inspection and removal. Provision should also be made for
the lifting and removal or large of heavy items of plant or equipment. Wherever
possible the “line” of the rooftop walkway should continue through the
plantroom to ease plant movement and general access.

Calorifier plantrooms

Size
7.24 Figures 48 and 49 show minimum plantroom areas required for the
accommodation of calorifiers, associated plant and equipment.

Site
7.25 Calorifier rooms should be located as near as practicable to the load
centres or between the load centres and the source of heat supply. They should
preferably have direct access to the outer air. Consideration should be given to
the effect on adjacent rooms of heat transfer through walls and ceiling.

19
Shape
7.26 In general the room shape should vary between a square or rectangle with
a maximum ratio of 3: 1.

Height
7.27 A minimum room height of 2.7 m is recommended for the
accommodation of horizontal calorifiers. Vertical calorifiers may require a height
of more than one storey to achieve the necessary headroom.

Construction
7.28 The calorifier base should be designed to carry the weight of the calorifier
and its contents. The walls and ceiling may be required to support pipework and
minor items of plant. Bases for pumps should be designed to minimise vibration
from the pump and motor. It may be necessary to provide sufficient space to
allow for lifting equipment to be used during the installation or renewal of the
larger items of plant.

Other services in the calorifier plantroom

7.29 Space for general lighting will be required, with suitable electric power
points. Adequate provision should be made for the removal of heat losses from
plant to prevent an excessive rise in temperature in the plantroom. This should be
achieved by natural ventilation wherever possible. Drains will be required for
normal drainage and emptying down. If the plantroom is below drain level, space
for a sump and sump pumps will be necessary.

Water storage rooms

7.30 The area required to accommodate water storage tanks is readily

calculated from the required storage capacity and the available room height.
Additional space may be required for pressurisation plant or circulating pumps.
Figure 50 shows the minimum clearance that should be provided around cisterns.

Site
7.31 The most suitable location for internal storage is either the roof or the
basement, except in very tall buildings where tanks may be required on
intermediate floors. Water towers or concrete underground reservoirs may be
considered for external storage with the capacity of the high level tanks in
buildings reduced accordingly. Siting tanks over vertical shafts such as staircases
may facilitate supporting the weight of the tanks.

Shape
7.32 The proportions of the tank may have to suit the available site. The
cost/capacity ratio of the tank increases as its shape departs from square,
therefore tanks should be designed to be as close to square as is practicable.

Height
7.33 The height will generally be governed by standard plate sizes and a
clearance space of approximately 1000 mm above and 450 mm below the
sectional tanks.

20
7.0 Plantrooms

Construction

7.34 Sectional tanks using standard flanged pressed plates are most commonly
used for water storage. Adequate supports and supporting structure should be
provided. Curbs of adequate height should be provided around descending ducts
and at doorways to prevent the spread of spilled or leaking water. A tell-tale
overflow should be provided from the floor.

Other services in tank rooms

7.35 Space for adequate lighting will be required around the tanks. A suitable
power point may be required in the tank room. Adequate ventilation is required
for internal tank rooms. Heating for frost protection should be considered.

Storage of medical pathology and industrial gas

cylinders

7.36 The following sections provide guidance on the storage of medical

pathology and industrial gas cylinders. Figure 51 shows typical layouts of
manifold rooms.

7.37 In respect of liquefied petroleum gas storage (LPG), it should be noted that
the principles of SI 917, the Highly flammable liquids and Liquefied Petroleum
Gases Regulations 1972, should be followed as appropriate. Detailed guidance
on the storage of LPG is given in the Health and Safety Executive Guidance Notes
CS4 and CS5, and the advice which follows is given without prejudice to that
contained in these documents.

Operational considerations

7.38 This guidance represents the minimum standard applicable to all new
installations, and the general principles should be followed on existing
installations so far as is reasonably practicable. Normally, existing installations
would have been designed to comply with the recommendations of Firecode or
HTM 2022 - ‘Medical gas pipeline systems’ as appropriate, that is gas cylinders
will have been stored either in a storeroom which is part of a health building or in
a separate, specially constructed building, both areas being used exclusively for
medical gas cylinders. These installations will usually be satisfactory if adequate
ventilation is provided.

7.39 In cases where there are difficulties in meeting the requirements contained
in this document for either new or existing installations, for example on a
restricted site, the advice of the gas supplier or NHS Estates should be sought as
appropriate. Where significant problems exist, the local inspector of the Health
and Safety Executive should be consulted. Overall, the principles contained in this
document should be followed as far as is reasonably practicable.

Cylinder store design

7.40 Cylinders should ideally be stored in the open air, but where this is not
practicable, the store should be adequately ventilated to minimise the possibility
of gas accumulating in the event of a leak. Details of suitable construction for a
store are given in paragraphs 7.62 to 7.64.

21
7.0 Plantrooms

7.41 Within the storage area, cylinders whose contents are incompatible, those
containing flammable and oxidising gases should not be stored together unless
there is adequate separation. Details of the storage area layout are given in
paragraph 7.62 to 7.64.

General principles of cylinder storage

Key points
7.42 The cylinder storage area should be:

l well ventilated;
l clearly labelled;

l secure (but with clear access);

l used exclusively for cylinders;

l for flammable and oxidising gases, free from naked flames and all sources
of ignition, and in a “no smoking” area;

l provided with barriers for cylinder segregation and to prevent cylinders

falling.

7.43 Storage of cylinders containing compressed, liquefied or dissolved gases

within unsuitable buildings may increase the risk of fire or explosion. All full and
empty cylinders, apart from those in use or required for immediate use, should be
kept in specially designed stores, which should be sited away from occupied
premises, and used exclusively for the storage of cylinders.

7.44 Wherever possible, cylinders should be stored in the open air

7.45 Where storerooms have to be used, they should be specially designed and
used solely for this purpose. A high standard of natural ventilation to the open air
should be provided at high and low level. If used for flammable gases, adequate
explosion relief should be incorporated, for example by provision of a roof of
lightweight, friable material (see paragraph 6.4 of the British Compressed Gases
Association Code of Practice CP8, ‘The safe storage of gaseous hydrogen in
seamless cylinders and similar containers’. Automatic fire detection should be
installed if appropriate as required by HTM 82 - ‘Alarm and detection systems’).

7.46 Sources of ignition should be eliminated from all areas where gas cylinders
are kept. Smoking and naked lights should be prohibited, and suitable notices
should be posted in prominent positions to this effect in accordance with the EEC
directive which came into effect on 1 January 1981. For further guidance see
Safety Sign Regulations 1980 No 1471; BS5499: ‘Fire Safety Signs, Notices and
Graphic Symbols’; and 855378: ‘Safety Signs and Colours’.

7.47 The store should be clearly labelled to indicate the type of cylinders it
contains, action to be taken in an emergency and the location of the key(s). The
graphic symbols in BS5499 and BS5378 may also be used as appropriate.

7.48 If the store contains more than one section, each should be clearly labelled
to show which types or classification of cylinders may and may not be stored.

7.49 The store should have adequate means of access to facilitate movement of
cylinders on trolleys. The cylinder bays should similarly be arranged to allow the
safe loading and manoeuvring of trolleys.

22
7.0 Plantrooms

7.50 Industrial and medical gases recognition charts should be displayed, in

accordance with BS349:1973 and BS1319.

7.51 Cylinders should not be stored in bulk except in specially designated

stores. However operational policy may require small quantities of gases to be
held outside the main store in ready for use stores. The general considerations
outlined in this section will also apply to ready use stores.

7.52 Full cylinders should be stored separately from empty ones in a clearly
identified area. Empty cylinders should be stored in the same way as full cylinders.

7.53 The store should normally be locked and access restricted to authorised
personnel-see paragraph 7.65.

7.54 Cylinders should be properly secured to prevent toppling or rolling. Vertical

storage is recommended for cylinders containing dissolved or liquefied gases and
is essential for cylinders fitted with dip tubes.

Location of main cylinder stores

7.55 For guidance on the fire hazards associated with inappropriately located
cylinder stores and in buildings adjoining stores, reference should be made to
Firecode.

7.56 Main cylinder stores should be located at ground level; never

underground, for example in basements.

7.57 Where necessary, protection from vehicular damage should be provided

for example by a low wall, crash barriers or bollards. This should not significantly
restrict the ventilation, and should not create a ‘tank’ in which gases could
accumulate.

7.58 Adequate access should be provided to stores to allow safe delivery and
manipulation of cylinders.

7.59 Stores should be located close to the delivery point. Wherever possible,
there should be only one delivery supply point on each site.

7.60 No parking should be permitted within the delivery and storage areas,
other than for loading and unloading.

7.61 Stores should be located in the shade wherever possible (cylinders of liquid
ammonia require special protection from direct sunlight).

Design and construction of main cylinder stores

7.62 Stores should be constructed so as to provide maximum ventilation

7.63 Where practicable, cylinders should be stored in the open air, with open
mesh fences for security. Protection against weather, debris etc should not reduce
the provision for natural ventilation below that given in Table 4 which should be
regarded as a minimum standard.

23
7.0 Plantrooms

Table 4 Design of main cylinder stores

Classification Sides Roof

Medical and non- At least one major side open Light, non-combustible
medical inert and wire mesh (see notes). material, designed to
oxidising gases only Remaining sides brick or prevent accumulation of
other non-combustible gases in event of leak
material. Where the sides are
not required to be “fire-
resisting” they should
incorporate suitably
distributed opening (for
example air bricks) at high
and low level to promote
cross-ventilation
Non-medical including At least 2 sides open wire As above
cylinders of flammable, mesh (wherever possible
toxic and/or corrosive opposite rather than
gases adjacent sides). Remaining
sides as above

Notes:
1. The sides should be at least 2 m high
2. The open wire mesh should be industrial quality, chain link fence or similar material to
provide security and free ventilation.

7.64 The floor and hard standing should be level and constructed of concrete or Bituminous or other similar
other non-combustible, non-porous material. A concrete finish is preferred and is carbonaceous materials should not be
likely to have a longer life. used for surfacing in the vicinity of
cryogenicstorage installations
(especially liquid oxygen), and in any
Security area where spillage of cryogenic liquid
may occur (for example tanker delivery
7.65 Unauthorised access to the store should be prevented. A perimeter fence areas). (See HTM 2022 - ‘Medicalgas
of industrial quality chain-link or equivalent, at least 2 m high, should be pipeline systems’.)
adequate unless protection is otherwise provided (see also Chapter 6). The floor should be laid to a fall, to
avoid the accumulation of water in any
undrained area of the storeroom.
Requirements for manifolds for non-medical gases

7.66 Wherever possible, manifolds for gases other than medical gases should
be located in the open air. If this is not possible, the above guidelines on manifold
rooms should be followed, with particular emphasis on good ventilation.

7.67 Explosion relief for flammable gas manifold rooms should be incorporated
into the exterior walls or roof of the manifold room. It should be designed so that
if an explosion occurs, the pressure would be relieved safely. The area of explosion
relief should be equivalent to the area of one of the largest sides or the roof and
relief may be achieved by using a roof of lightweight, friable material or via
openings in the walls/roof of the store (see also BCGA Code of Practice CP8).

7.68 Manifold control panels for open air service should be suitably constructed
and protected against the weather for such a location. Such weather protection
should incorporate adequate natural ventilation to prevent the accumulation of
any gas leakage.

24
7.0 Plantrooms

Ready use stores

7.69 In some areas it will be essential to hold small numbers of spare cylinders
for immediate use, for connection to anaesthetic machines, and for sudden
unanticipated demands. Such areas would include: operating department,
accident and emergency department, coronary care unit, central delivery suite of
maternity department, special care baby unit, intensive therapy unit, sterilizing
and disinfecting unit etc.

Medical air compressor

Size

7.70 The area required to accommodate a medical air compressor set is shown
in Figure 52. Reference should also be made to HTM 2022 - ‘Medical gas pipeline
systems’.

Site

7.71 Ground level or roof level are suitable locations for medical air
compressors. Allowance should be made for isolating the noise generated by the
plant during operation from adjacent areas. Adequate fresh air intake will be
required to the plantroom.

Medical vacuum plant

Size
7.72 The area required to accommodate the medical vacuum plant is shown in
Figure 53. Reference should also be made to HTM 2022 - ‘Medical gas pipeline
systems’.

Site

7.73 Ground level or roof level are suitable locations for medical vacuum plant.
Allowance should be made for isolating noise generated by the plant during
operation from adjacent areas.

Liquid oxygen storage

Safety distances

7.74 The area required to accommodate the liquid oxygen storage unit is
related to the surrounding buildings. Figures 54 and 55 and Tables 5, 6 and 7
show the required clearance for various situations. Reference should also be
made to HTM 2022 - ‘Medical gas pipeline systems’.

Sterilizers
7.75 The area required for sterilizers is provided in Table 8 and typical layouts for
the plant are given in Figure 56. Reference should also be made to HTM 2010 -
‘Sterilization’.

25
7.0 Plantrooms

Table 5 Separation distances: liquefied flammable gases, flammable liquids and oxygen
storage

a) LPG storage

Size of storage
Liquid oxygen LPG vessels
vessel
Weight Equivalent Separation distance
(tonnes)
capacity liquid metres
(tonnes) capacity
(m3) 15°C
up to 200 0 - 1.1 0 - 2.2 6.0
1.1 - 4.0 2.2 - 7.8 7.5
4.0 - 60.0 7.8 - 117.0 15.0
60.0 - 150 117.0 - 124.0 22.5
150.0 &above 294.0 &above 30.0
LPG cylinders and other liquefied
flammable gas * cylinders above 50 kg
total capacity 7.5

See also HS(G)34 ‘Storage of LPG at Fixed Installations’ and LPGITA COP 1
‘Code of Practice - Installation and Maintenance of Bulk LPG at Customer
Premises’.

b) Other bulk flammable liquids and liquefied flammable gases

The separation distances listed above for LPG should be applied to the same
stored volumes (m3) of other bulk liquefied flammable gases and may be
used for the same stored volumes (m3) of bulk flammable liquids (+). These
distances may be reduced depending on the nature of the flammable liquid
and any protective measure and in these cases an individual assessment of
the proposed location should be carried out.
* Common examples of liquefied flammable gases supplied in cylinders include
ammonia, hydrogen sulphide and ethylene oxide.
+ Common examples of bulk flammable liquids include acetone, methanol, diesel,
petrol.

Table 6 Separation distances: compressed flammable gases and oxygen storage

Compressed flammable gas cylinders (m3) Liquid oxygen storage
(gas volume measured as Nm3 at up to 200 tonnes
1013 mbar and 15°C) separation distance
(metres)

up to 70 5.0
Above 70 8.0

Notes:
1. For liquefied flammable gas cylinders, see Table 1
2. Distances in Table 2 are based on hydrogen cylinders. Reference: BCGA
CP8(1986).
For separation distance for Acetylene, BCGA CP 6 (1986) should be referred to

26
7.0 Plantrooms

Table 7 Separation distances: flammable liquid or gas lines with union flanges etc and
oxygen storage

Flammable liquid or gas line Liquid oxygen storage up to

size (nominal) 200 tonnes separation distance
(metres)

mm inches metres
bore bore

Up to 25 1 6.0
Up to 50 2 10.0
Above 50 2 15.0

Notes:

The above separation distances are intended to provide protection for the LOX storage
tank against jet flame impingement from an ignited release from the flammable
liquid/gas line.
The distances are based on LPG as the contents of the flammable liquid/gas line and
are given as a “worst case”.
For flammable liquids or gases other than LPG in the line, the above distances should
be used, unless it can be shown that smaller distances are adequate to avoid jet flame
Impingement.
If some means of protection from jet flame impingement (such as shielding of the joint
by fire resistive material) can be provided between the union/flange on the flammable
liquid/gas line and the LOX storage, and this can be shown to provide an equal or
greater degree of protection than the separation distances shown, the separation
distances may be reduced.

27
Table 8 Planning dimensions for preferred sizes of sterilizer

Usable Dimensions as Figure 56 Weight (a) Portage for

chamber mm kg installation and removal (b)
Nominal
space maximum maximum
Type of vessel
sterilizer capacity
mm
m3 A B C Height Installed Fully mm
HxWxD Weight
minimum (c) loaded HxWxD kg
maximum maximum
0.28 Vertical chamber machine - refer to manufacturer
Porous load and LTS 780 x 635 x 635 0.4 1000 1200 1750 2060 1550 1740 2000 x 1050 x 1750 1400
LTS and F 780 x 635 x 935 0.6 1000 1200 1950 2060 1850 2070 2000 x 1050 x 2100 1600
780 x 635 x 635 0.4 1000 1200 1750 2060 1550 1970 2000 x 1050 x 1750 1400
Fluids 780 x 635 x 935 0.6 1000 1200 1950 2060 1850 2340 2000 x 1050 x 2100 1600
780 x 635 x 1250 0.8 1000 1200 2200 2060 1950 2500 2000 x 1050 x 2420 1800

a. Weight to be distributed using a minimum of 4 pads each measuring a minimum of 150 mm x 150 mm.
b. Where possible sterilizers should be transported as a whole and not partially stripped.
C. Chamber opening should not be less than 915 mm x 660 mm.
d. Laboratory and EO sterilizers should be sized to suit their particular application. Where a multi-purpose laboratory sterilizer is to be installed it should comply with the data given for the porous load.
8.0 The zoning and routing of primary
services in the hospital street vertical
shafts
General

8.1 Engineering services may be distributed to departments via service shafts

located within the hospital street. As well as facilitating vertical communication
and distribution of services between plantrooms and departments, these shafts
form the main horizontal distribution zone. It is important, therefore, that
sufficient space should be provided within these shafts to accommodate the
services provisions for the whole building.

8.2 Where possible, services should be positioned to interface directly with the
departmental zoning and spacing principles set down in Chapter 9. Figures 57
and 58 illustrate how space is allocated within the shaft to allow smoke canopy
extract ducts on each floor level to be taken up to roof level plantrooms in a
separate fire-rated enclosure. A similar enclosure is included for the distribution of
the departmental electrical feeder cables and isolators. At each floor level, direct
access from the hospital street to the electrical enclosures is recommended.
Engineering shafts, apart from those containing electrical services, generally need
not be carried below the ground floor ceiling zone down through to the ground
floor slab. Access to these shafts for the isolation of services to ground floor and
first floor may be accomplished at first floor level (see Figures 57 and 58).

8.3 The space provision for ventilation ductwork in each shaft will be
determined by the functional, clinical and fire requirement of particular
departments, and also the limitations imposed by the available service void
heights inside the building. Piped water services are generally grouped in one
shaft, while medical gas services are contained in another.

Standard shaft arrangement

8.4 The standard arrangement shown consists of two rectangular shafts

interfacing directly with a department which does not contain a lift or stairway.

Alternative shaft arrangement

8.5 This arrangement is only appropriate where a lift and/or stairway is

incorporated within the department entrance. The services provision is similar to
the standard arrangement but the shafts are contained within the zone by the lift
or stairway.

Drawings

8.6 The drawings depict basic zoning principles for typical departmental
accommodation and show how they may be interpreted for typical services
routing into engineering shafts positioned at the hospital street interface. These
drawings are illustrative only and teams will need to consider local project
requirements when designing structural variations and other options for
accommodating services not included within this guidance.

29
9.0 Service distribution within
departments

General

9.1 This chapter provides guidance for all floor levels where a full width ceiling
void can be utilised for the distribution of engineering services.

9.2 All the engineering services principles referred to in this section apply to a
typical departmental layout. The zoning principles developed and described
below have been based on the maximum expected service requirements for a
hospital complex containing various departments, each approximately 1400 m2 in
area, and with a minimum ceiling height of 2.7 m (excluding corridors and WCs).
For areas requiring a ceiling height of 3 m, such as operating theatres and X-ray
departments, these rules may need to be modified accordingly.

9.3 In some departments on the top floor, roof lights may be provided and the
routing of the services will need to be coordinated to suit the particular type and
application.

9.4 The services provision to each department will dictate the extent to which
individual service zones will be utilised. Flexibility is not allowed in the pipe or duct
mains zone where services have pre-determined routes dimensioned in the
horizontal plane. Branch pipes and ducts should be grouped within the particular
zone to provide good access and supports arrangement.

9.5 Figures 59 and 60 illustrate typical department layouts. These plans indicate
the routing of services within the department zone and show how services are
connected to:
a. the mains distribution system located in the hospital street;

b. rooftop plantrooms via the vertical services shafts.

9.6 Individual services have been allocated a zone or zones through which they
may be routed and, apart from vertical penetration by other services, each zone is
generally reserved for the assigned service or services. By zoning the services in
this manner the difficulties of coordination between them are kept to an absolute
minimum. The final design solution for individual services is left to the planning
team.

9.7 When dealing with a Whole Hospital design the collection of departments is
varied in size and functions and service requirements. A standard arrangement for
the services at the hospital street/development interface is therefore essential if
the design of the hospital street is not to be over-complicated by different
solutions at every interface. This does not mean that a standard arrangement at
the interface will solve all problems, but it will enable standard zoning and
spacing arrangements within the hospital street to be workable and easier to
apply.

9.8 Drainage has more significant constraints than any other service and, as a
consequence, it is more important that its zones are not penetrated by other
services. Moreover the services void for a particular department will contain the
drainage zone for the department located on the floor above. It is therefore
essential that no intrusions into the drainage zone above the false ceiling are
made. It is permissible, however, for a department’s services to pass through its
own drainage zone, that is, below floor level. Such an arrangement should be
avoided, however, since it increases costs and the need for coordination.

30
9.0 Service distribution within departments

9.9 The physical integration between services and the components of the
building, such as structure, partitions and ceiling support system, are determined
in such a way as to suit individual departmental arrangements and service
requirements.

9.10 Each department floor may be serviced independently, from its interface
with the hospital street. The following basic rules relate to the overall routing of
services within the department and should be applied during the early planning
stages of the engineering design. The rules aim to simplify the design and routing
of services, keep the service loads and therefore sizes to a minimum at
departmental entrances, minimise co ordination, and lead to the better
preparation of engineering drawings.

9.11 Although each block can accommodate a part of one, or a number of

individual departments, the basic service routing, illustrated in Figures 59 to 60,
remains the same.

Structure
9.12 The zoning and routing of mechanical and electrical engineering services
in this document has been set out according to a notional department structural
grid. The structural grid may be modified to accommodate the structural
variations within hospital developments and the designer will be required to
modify the zoning as appropriate. The suggested minimum beam/floor slab
depths are assumed to be as illustrated by Figure 59.

9.13 Mechanical and electrical vertical shafts or ducts are located at the
department and hospital street interface. These allow vertical communication of
services between plantrooms and the main horizontal distribution system into
each floor.

Drainage zones

9.14 The drainage branch zone and the perimeter drainage zone contain all
drainage pipework. Where a department is single storey or where it constitutes
the top floor of a block, this zone may be utilised for rain-water pipework.

9.15 The drainage vent pipe may be routed within the combined pipe and duct
branch zone, and will need to be coordinated with the other services using this
zone.

9.16 The drainage system should be contained fully within the drainage zones
and should not impinge on any other zone. Similarly no other service should
impinge on the drainage zone unless it is related to the department to which the
drainage design is associated.

Routing drainage systems

Main collection drains (ground level)

9.17 The route of each main collection drain is either towards the hospital street
or preferably towards the periphery of the building for connection into the main
hospital drain.

9.18 Separate main collection drains convey the soil and waste and surface
water drainage from each departmental department into the main hospital drain.

31
9.0 Service distribution within departments

Vertical drainage stacks

9.19 Vertical drainage stacks may rise at the corners of each module of the
departmental unit for a vertical drainage duct to accommodate the soil and waste
vent stacks, the surface water stack and the drainage vent pipes.

Drainage vents
9.20 Drainage ventilation pipework should be kept to a minimum.

9.21 A 50 mm diameter vent pipe may be required at the high point of all
heavily loaded main drains and spine or branch drains of exceptional length.

9.22 For top floor locations having a pitched roof, the drainage vent pipe may
be contained solely within the combined duct and pipe branch zone, and routed
towards a corner stack location. The connection to the stack may not be possible
within the building and in this situation the vent may terminate through the roof
adjacent to this position. The service branches will be positioned and routed, and
then the vent pipe(s) coordinated with them.

Interfloor drainage

9.23 The drainage system employed for above-ground templates is basically

horizontal in concept (shallow gradient). The zones through which the drainage
pipework from above-ground floor departments is routed are located in the
service void of the department below, and are reserved for drainage systems only.

9.24 Outlets from sanitary appliances may drop vertically through the structural
slab into the drainage branch zone below; and connect into collecting spine
drains to discharge into the perimeter drainage zone at each side of the module.

9.25 The design should allow blockages to be cleared from above floor level via
an access point located either at or adjacent to each sanitary appliance or fitting.
Rodding eyes at floor level and access to pipework below the floor slab are not
generally acceptable.

Ground floor drainage

9.26 The ground floor does not impose the same restrictions on the penetration
and zoning of the drainage pipework. A similar concept may, however, be
followed.

9.27 Internal manholes should be provided at the junction between spine and
main drains only in areas where they are clinically acceptable.

Pipework service zone

Pipe main zones

9.28 The pipe mains are contained in zones within the services void as follows:

a. Central pipe main zones-these zones contain all piped distribution

services with the exception of the drainage pipework and the compensated
low pressure hot water (LPHW) heating mains (see Figure 60);

b. Perimeter pipe mains zones-these zones, which run down the

perimeter of each side of the block, contain only the compensated LPHW
heating mains. The positions shown should be adhered to since they
generally allow for the most economic runs of the services.

32
9.0 Service distribution within departments

Combined duct and pipe branch zone

9.29 To fully utilise the total space requirements of the engineering services
void, the duct and pipe branch zones are combined. This will entail a greater
degree of coordination of services and therefore will necessitate identification of
the ventilation requirements at an early stage.

9.30 When routing the branch ducts in this zone an overall dimensional
allowance of 50 mm should be made for flanges, supports and insulation.

Pipe branches

9.31 Branch pipes do not have prescribed routes within the branch zone. They
need, therefore, to be coordinated with the branch ventilation ductwork and the
electrical services where they pass through the crossover zone or electrical zone.

Low pressure hot water heating

Compensated temperature circuit

9.32 The general pipework arrangement within the service void of each
department unit for radiator and convector systems is shown in Figure 60.

9.33 The branch pipework to local low level circuits at the perimeter should
drop down within a vertical (100 mm min) engineering zone at the perimeter of
the block.

9.34 Terminal emitters sited internally within the department can be served via
local partitions. In this instance, isolating and regulating valves should not be
positioned within the partitioning unless suitable access to them can be arranged.

Constant temperature circuit

9.35 Ceiling mounted fan convectors, and duct mounted heating coils requiring
constant temperature low pressure hot water, may have control valves located
within the false ceiling. As no alternative is available to the siting of these valves,
every effort should be made to ensure that good access to and around these
fittings is made available.

Hot and cold water services

Hot water service

9.36 Each department may be served separately from the hospital street by a
conventional two-pipe flow and return system. The pipework is routed
horizontally in a predetermined position through the service void to dropper
positions adjacent to the draw-off points. Careful consideration must be given to
the routing of branch flow and return pipework to draw-off points and to avoid
venting problems.

Cold water service

9.37 Provision has been made within the rules for a single potable cold water
service (CWS) pipe. The main enters the department from the hospital street and
runs in a predetermined position within the service void. The system design must
observe all the necessary precautions against back siphonage as outlined in HTM
2027 - ‘Hot and cold water supply, storage and main services’.

33
9.0 Service distribution within departments

9.38 The CWS pipework to draw-off points will drop from the high level
distribution pipework to draw-off points either within the thickness of the
partition or via vertical pipe ducts adjacent to a fitting or range of fittings.

Fire-fighting services

9.39 Reference should be made to Firecode.

9.40 Where a sprinkler system is installed, the distribution pipes may be run in
the combined duct and pipe branch zones and coordination will be required
where the range pipes pass through the electrical and ceiling zones to connect to
the sprinkler heads.

Medical gases

9.41 Consideration should be given to the siting of the main isolation valves at
department entrances and nurse’s station. The valves will need to be accessed in
an emergency and for maintenance; they should therefore be located in a site
that is readily accessible and unlikely to be obstructed by equipment.

Electrical sub-main

Sub-main feeder cables

9.42 The main feeder tray which carries the essential and non-essential
sub-main feeder cables to the departmental switchcupboard should have a
predetermined route dimensioned in the horizontal plane within the hospital
street.

Trunking and conduit

9.43 There is no predetermined horizontal position for the distribution trunking

and fire conduit. However, it is recommended these be routed within the main
services zone in a readily accessible position above corridor areas, where practical,
or in areas where normal departmental routines will not be interrupted.

Ceiling zone
9.44 This zone provides the spatial requirements necessary to accommodate the
ceiling and the support members.

9.45 Access will be required through the ceiling zone into the space above for
the inspection and maintenance of all plant and equipment located in the ceiling
zone.

9.46 Items of equipment which require regular attention should be positioned

in areas which will cause minimum disruption to department routines.

Ventilation zones

9.47 An allowance of 50 mm is included in the depth of the ventilation zone for

flanges, supports and insulation, and to provide a clearance between adjacent
zones.

34
9.0 Service distribution within departments

Duct mains zones

9.48 Supply, clean and dirty extract air ducts may enter the department from
the vertical engineering services shafts at the hospital street interface. They then
may run horizontally within the duct mains zones which run down each side of
the block.

9.49 Duct mains, to serve the side areas of the department, are routed initially
into the combined duct and pipe branch zone. Once the perimeter drainage zone
within the side module has been cleared, the ducts may then rise back into the
main ventilation zone of the side module.

Fire dampers
9.50 Fire dampers are required in ducts which pass through fire compartment
floors and walls. Regular access will be required to check and reset all fire and
smoke dampers. Adequate space for access to the fire damper should be
provided to allow service personnel access to service and reset the damper.

9.51 Further advice and information on the provision of fire dampers is

contained in Firecode.

Electrical zone

Electrical main zone

9.52 This zone contains both the essential and non-essential sub-main feeder
cables which run from the electrical riser switchroom in the hospital street to the
department switchcupboard. The department switchcupboard should be located
centrally within the department.

Departments with 3 m high ceilings

9.53 Basic spacing and zoning principles can be applied to departments, such as
X-ray and operating theatres, which have a ceiling height of 3 m.

9.54 In all cases the drainage zone related to such a department should not be
penetrated unless the precise routing of these drains is known.

Departments with 2.4 m high ceilings

9.55 A 2.4 m high ceiling will not normally involve any major engineering
routing problems. It will also be possible to maintain the basic zoning and spacing
principles for the main through services within the department and where these
interface with the hospital street.

9.56 The drawings in this chapter depict, for ground, intermediate and top floor
locations, basic zoning principles and how they may be interpreted for typical
services provision. These drawings are illustrative only and design teams may need
to include local project variations to suit particular needs. In this respect roof
profiles, structural systems and roof lights can often impose zoning and routing
constraints not included within this guidance.

35
10.0 Definitions

10.1 Chase: An accommodation for small services cut or formed in the building
fabric and covered by the normal finish. Subsequent access is usually obtained by
destroying the finish.

10.2 Crawlway: An enclosed horizontal space for services large enough to

permit a person to crawl along for a reasonable distance or work in cramped
conditions for a reasonable period according to circumstances and installed
services, when all services have been installed.

10.3 Duct (horizontal): A general term referring to an enclosed space used for
the distribution of horizontal services.

10.4 Duct (vertical): An enclosure specifically designed for the controlled

movement of air.

10.5 Ha-ha: An open trench with one or both sides sloped in which services are
run to avoid spoiling the general appearance of the landscape.

10.6 Lift well: A vertical space through a building in which lifts will be installed.

10.7 Plant: Equipment supplying or served by the engineering services or used

for their maintenance.

10.8 Public health engineering: The drainage system within the building,
including waters, overflows, soil pipes, and rainwater pipes.

10.9 Service corridor: A passageway at or above ground level, primarily

intended for the use of hospital personnel. Part of such a passageway may be
suitably separated for the accommodation of services.

10.10 Services: The mechanical, electrical and public health engineering

services distributed throughout the hospital.

10.11 Subway: An underground traffic route between buildings through or

alongside which provision may be made for the installation of services.

10.12 Trench: A covered horizontal services space in the floor or ground with
access from above.

10.13 Void: A space formed in the construction of a building, which can be

used for the installation of services, but is not necessarily constructed for that
purpose.

10.14 Walkway: An enclosed space for horizontal services, large enough to

permit a person to walk freely and work comfortably when all services have been
installed.

10.15 Department: the building envelope containing a department which may

be on a single floor or multi-floors.

10.16 Template: the floor of a block which can be isolated as a single entry
within a hospital development and may contain more than one department.

36
10.0 Definitions

10.17 Ready use store: a local store within a particular department for a
limited number of medical gas cylinders - usually one day’s supply for reserve
purposes, and cylinders for immediate use.

10.18 Fire Safety Officer: as defined in Firecode.

10.19 Flammable: capable of burning with a flame.

10.20 Main cylinder storage area: the main area where all cylinders on a site
are stored, excluding only those cylinders in use in manifold rooms or in ready use
stores.

10.21 Manifold rooms: a purpose built room designed to accommodate a

cylinder manifold installation, and reserve cylinders as appropriate.

10.22 Medical gases: gases used for clinical purposes.

10.23 Non-medical gases: all other gases including those used for industrial
purposes and in laboratories and pathology departments.

37
5000
Engineering Area comprises :
Calorifier Plant Rooms I
4000 Ventilation Plant Rooms
1 Lift Walls and Motor Rooms
Vertical Ducts
water storage
Switchrooms
3000

Lower
2000

1000

5 10 15 20 25 30 35 40 45
Gross floor area (excluding engineering areas) 1000 sq.m.

Figure 1 Total engineering area per gross floor area

500

400

300

Lower
200

100

10 15 20 25 30 35 40 45
Gross floor area (excluding engineering areas) 1000 sq.m.

Figure 2 Calorifier plantroom/gross floor area

1250

250

10 15 20 25 30 35 40 45
Gross floor area (excluding engineering areas) 1000 sq.m.

Figure 3 Ventilation plantroom/gross floor area

38
Area comprises : Lift Well(s)
size x number of floors
served + area of motor
room(s) I I
- Six to ten floors

0 5 10 15 20 25 30 35 40 45 50

Gross Floor Area (excluding engineering) , 1000 sq.m.

Figure 4 Lift wells and motor rooms/gross floor area

I I I
Area comprises : Lift Well(s)
size x number of floors
served + area of motor

Six to ten floors

200

100

Three to six floors

I
0 2 4 6 8 10 12 14 16 18 20

Gross Floor Area (excluding engineering) , 1000 sq.m.

Figure 5 Lift wells and motor rooms/gross floor area

1000

800

600

400

200

0 5 10 15 20 25 30 35 40 45 50

Gross Floor Area (excluding engineering) , 1000 sq.m.

Figure 6 Vertical duct area/gross floor area

39
500

400

300

200

100

0 5 10 15 20 25 30 35 40 45 50
Gross floor Area (excluding engineering) , 1000 sq.m.

Figure 7 Water storage room/gross floor area

500

400

300

200

100

0 5 10 15 20 25 30 35 40 45 50
Gross Floor Area (excluding engineering) , 1000 sq.m.

Figure 8 Switchroom/gross floor area

40
Mains Distribution to
Development.
proximity to energy centre
housing the hlgh voltage

transformers medical gas stores

and flammable liquids store.

An energy centre may be lntegrated with the hospital and

Internal Duct - located dose to the primary energy consumers to ensure
serving Specialist
Dept. ie Pathology short distribution mutes for mains.
Operating Theatre.
Energy Dept.
I I

Horizontal Distribution at High

or Low level to Departments.

Figure 9 Main engineering distribution within hospital

Roof Level Plant room.

Ceiling Void Ceiling Void

Department Department

First Floor
Horizontal Service
Ceiling Void Ceiling Void
Into Dept.

Vertical Service
Distribution Ducts
Street

Ground Floor

floor or Basement
Main Engineering Distribution Principles Duct for
Hospital Street - Department Interface. Horizontal
Distribution.

Figure 1O
41
Top
Space for Centre
Future Services

Side

Figure 11 Composite of duct and service spaces

Figure 12 Typical cross-section of subway

Figure 14 Typical cross-section of walkway

Figure 13 Typical cross-section of crawlway

42
Figure 15 Clearance areas around pipes and valves

Figure 16 Typical cross-sections

Access from below

Figure 17 Typical cross-sections of ventilation duct areas

43
500 I I
Side Clearance I

400

300

200

loo

0 250 500 750 1000 1250 1300 1750 2000

Width (or diameter) A or Depth B of Duct (mm).

Figure 18 Clearance dimension around duct

44
Figure 19 Typical cross-section showing spacing of services

III
Figure 20 Typical cross-sections of vertical ducts
45
Roller Guide -/:

Drain

Figure 21 Typical cross-sections of ha-ha

Drain Channel

S., Angle or Tee

Cement Haunching

Figure 22 Typical cross-sections of ha-ha

47
Figure 23 Typical cross-section of services trench - internal

Figure 25 Typical cross-section showing chases in brickwork or concrete

Figure 24 Typical cross-section of services trench -external

48
1.1 m
I

2-5 m

mm

CRAWL
MAINTENANCE REACH LEVELS
1.5 m

Stand 1.5 m

1.2 m
Kneel

900 mm
Sit

600 mm
SQUAT 690 mm

300 mm

GENERAL

Passageway

550 mm min.

STOOP

Figure 26 Anthropometric data - body dimensions

49
STAIRS

Provide back guard

over 2.1 m height

2.1 m
opt.

Optimum
range

150 mm min.

(a) Width 380 mm min. 450 mm optimum. 600 mm min. Optimum range
between side walls
(b) 180 mm - 406 mm - 300 mm optimum (a) Width 600 mm to 760 mm one man - 1.1 m min.
(c) 20 mm - 40 mm dia. rung
two men
(b) 184 mm optimum
(c) 240 mm - optimum tread
STEP LADDERS

RAMPS

75O x = 940 mm

65” x = 900 mm

Incline not to exceed 20’

(a) Width 530 mm to 600 mm with handrails

(b) 600 mm min. between side walls
(c) 80 mm - 150 mm tread (a) Width 750 mm min. - 1.1 m optimum
(d) 250 mm riser maximum

Figure 27 Anthropometric data -climbing dimensions

SMOKE EXTRACT

SECTlON

FRESH
AIR I
INLET (AIR HANDLING UNIT )
LOUVRES

-MECHANICAL SERVICES
CONTROL PANEL
- - - - -

SHAFT I SHAFT I
I I

- - -

A HU FOR 24 HR L ELECTRICAL DlSTRlBUTlON

ACCOMMODATION PANEL
H E A T l N G & CH W A T E R
1 . 5 m Ys
MAINS SERVING AHU
BATTERIES

FIRE MAIN C O N N

15.6 m

Figure28 Typical plantroom 1 serving a combination of 24hr and 9 - 5 accommodation departments. End location Scale 1:100

51
A H U

FRESH
AIR SPECIAL EXTRACT
INLET PLANT/FANS AT
LOUVRES

AHU FOR 24 HR
ACCOMMODATION

--------

ELEC
EXTRACT5

HEATING & CH WATER

MAINS SERVlNG
AH U BATTERlES
SMOKE EXTRACTS
- - - - - - - -
l -
I
SHAFT I SHAFT
I

15.6 m

Figure 29 Typical plantroom 2 serving a combination of 24hr and 9 - 5 accommodation departments Scale 1 : 100

52
SECTION

FRESH
AIR
INLET
LOUVRES
AHU FOR 9-S
ACCOMMODATION
3 . 5 m ‘/s

SMOKE
EXTRACTS 0 . 6 m ‘is

ELEC

HEATING & CH WATER

SMO K E
MAlNS SERVING
FIRE MAlN E X T RACTS
AHU BATTERIES
CON N

--
I I
SHAFT SHAFT

15-6 m

Figure 30 Typical plantroom 3 serving a combination of 24hr and 9 - 5 accommodation departments Scale 1 : 100

53
A H U FOR 24 HR 9-5;

SECTION HEATING & CH WATER

MAlNS FROM ENERGY
CABLE ROUTE FROM CENTRE TO AHU BATTERIES
LV, SW. RM TO FEED IN PLANT ROOMS
L.H SIDE OF HOSPITAL
CABLE ROUTE TO
SERVE R-H SIDE
OF HOSPITAL

L.V SWITCH ROOM

FIRE EXTRACTS
MAIN MAINS PIPEWORK
CONN AT HIGH LEVEL AHU AT HIGH LEVEL
1 . 0 m J/s

SHAFT
l -

15.6 m

Figure 31 Typical plantroom 4 serving combined 24hr and 9 - 5 accommodation Scale 1 :100

54
HEATlNG & CH
WATER MAINS
SERVING AHU
BATTERIES
A H U
A H U I I
I
III
SECTION

FRESH
AIR
INLET
LOUVRE

SPECIAL EXTRACTS
FROM 9-5 DEPT

1t E L E C
HEATING & CH WATER -
MAINS SERVING AHU
SMOKE BATTERIES
EXTRACTS

FIRE MAIN
CONN
SHAFT

15-6 m

Figure32 Typical plantroom 5 serving a combination of 24hr and 9 - 5 accommodation departments Scale 1:700

55
CONTROL
PANELS
AHU

SECTION

FRESH
AIR
INLET
LOUVRE
AHU FOR 24 HR
ACCOMMODATION
5 - 2 m 3/ S SPECIAL
EXTRACTS

SHAFT

HEATING & CH WATER

MAINS SERVING AHU
BATTERIES
SMOKE
EXTRACTS
FIRE MAIN
CONN
- - - - - - - - - - - - -
I

SHAFT SHAFT
I

1 5 - 6 m

Figure 33 Typical plantroom 6 serving 24hr accommodation departments Scale l : lO0

56
C/EXT FANS AT
HIGH LEVEL IN
PLANT R O O M

FRESH
AIR
INLET
LOUVRES I C/EXTRACT SHAFT I SHAFT I
FROM OTHER I
DEPTS I
I

EXTRACTS
SMOKE
EXTRACTS
I
ACCESS. TO
MEZZANINE FLOOR

C/EXTRACT
FROM OP.THl

1 5 . 6 m

Figure 34 Arrangement ‘A’ of plantroom 7 serving a combination of 24hr operating theatres (4) and 9 - 5 accommodation Scale 1 : 100

57
EXTRACT
C/EXTRACT

C/EXTRACT
HEATING & CH WATER L
MAINS TO AHU BATTER

CONTROL
AHU FOR 24 HR PANELS I
ACCOMMODATlON (ELEC & MECH)
P L A N T

figure35 Section through arrangement (plantroom 7) Scale 1 :100

58
AHU FOR 24 HR
ACCOMMODATION

FRESH
AIR
INLET
LOUVRES

HEATING a CH WATER
MAINS SERVING AHU EXTRACTS
BATTERIES

C / E X T R A C T AT H/L C / E X T R A C T AT H/L

15.6 m

Figure 36 Typical plantroom serving a combination of 24hr operating theatres (4) and 9 - 5 accommodation Scale 1 :100

59
A H U F O R 2 4 H R C/EXT
PLANT D/EXT
ACCOMMODATION
PLANT

- CLEAN EXTRACT
FROM 2 OP.TH FROM 2 OP.TH

AHU FOR OP.TH.1 A H U F O R O P . T H . 2

Figure 37 Sections through arrangement (plantroom from Figure 36) Sca!e 1 : 100

60
FRESH
AIR
INLET
LOUVRES

SHAFT

HEATING & CH WATER

MAINS SERVING AHU
BATTERIES

SHAFT
t SHAFT

SMOKE C/EXT
EXTRACTS PLANT
AHU TO OP TH
1 . 3 m 3/ S

AHU TO OP TH
1 . 3 m 3/ S

15.6 m

Figure 38 Typical plantroom serving a combination of 24hr operating theatres (2) and 9 - 5 accommodation. End location Scale 1 : 100

61
HEATING & CH WATER EXTRACT
MAINS TO AHU BATTERIES FAN

CONTROL
PANELS
AHU 5.2 m %

Figure 39 Section through plantroom from Figure 38 Scale 1 : 100

SMOKE EXTRACT

DIRTY EXTRACT

AIR HANDLING PLANT

SMOKE EXTRACT FAN CONTROL PANEL

SECTION

SHAFTS SMOKE EXTRACTS

CONTROL PANEL

CONST. TEMP. HEATING

& CHILLED WATER F & R

AIR HANDLING PRlNT

3.0m r/l to 3.SmVs

16.30

PLAN

Figure40 Typical plantroom. End location Scale 1 : 700

63
FROM DIRTY
SMOKE EXRACT FAN EXTRACT FANS

CONTROL PANEL
SHAFTS

16.30

SMOKE EXTRACTS DIRTY EXTRACT

FRESH AIR INLET PLENUM

COST. TEMP. HEATING AND

CHILLED WATER CONNECTIONS
TO HEATER & COOLER BATTERIES
OMITTED FOR CLARITY.

D
AIR HANDLING PLANT
2.5m ah

PLAN

Figure 41 Typical plantroom serving a combination of 24hr and 9 - 5 accommodation Scale 1 : 100

64
SMOKE EXTRACT
CLEAN EXTRACT FAN

M DIRTY
RACT FANS
2.60

SECTION

NOTE
CONST. TEMP. HEATING AND
CHILLED WATER CONNECTIONS
TO HEATER & COOLER BATTERlES
OMITTED FOR CLARITY.
AIR
GRILLE

16.30
WALKWAY

MP. HEATING

B O l L E R S
2 x 900Kw.

PLAN
Figure 42 Typical plantroom including hot water boilers and HWS calorifiers Scale 1 : 100

65
MECHANICAL ELECTRICAL
SERVICES SERVICES

VENTILATION

0.6m
MINIMUM
FINISHED FLOOR LEVEL

PANELS IN
SUSPENDED
CEILING
MINIMUM DISTANCE
1.Om

MECHANICAL AND
CORRIDOR BUILDING SERVICES
1.1m
MINIMUM
HEIGHT
ELECTRICAL
SERVICES

TEMPORARY
LIGHTING/
POWER SOCKETS-
POWER SOCKETS

DRAINAGE
SUBWAY OR WALKWAY CHANNEL CRAWLWAY SERVICES
TYPICAL CEILING VOID CHANNEL SERVICES TUNNEL TUNNEL OR TRENCH
SERVICES IN A CORRIDOR
DUCTS TO BE WATERPROOFED
NOT TO SCALE

Figure 43 Typical segregated routes for services

COVERED COVERED
CABLE TRENCH CABLE TRENCH
DUCTS DUCTS

C.B.

ESCAPE
DOOR

CLOSE BATTERY

ESCAPE
DOOR

Figure 44 Sub-station with HV ring main switchboard, two transformers and low voltage switchboard cubicle type

DRY
TRANSFORMER CUBICLE

DUCTS

STEEL SCREEN

DUCTS
\
FIRE SCREEN FLOOR TO CEILING

PLAN

Figure 45 Sub-station with single HV switch, dry transformer and low voltage switchboard

67
Low Level air Exhaust
inlet ventilators silencer
with adjustable
Louvr

Bench
Temperature
controller0

-Engine radiator

Roller
door

415v switchboard and

control panel door

High and low Electrik room

room temperature heating thermostat
alarm thermostat

NOTE: Typical operating valuer for engine room temperature alarms:

high temperature 35 c
low temperature 7 C
Remote Indicator lamps and audible alarm positioned at a permanently
manned station. for example in the boiler house.

Figure 46 Typical diesel generator installation (100kW)

Adjustable louvred
ventilators at low
level for air intake

Engine
s t a r t i n g
battery
charger
Space heating
controls
battery able trench
Duct between
engine radiator
and Louvred
air outlet
t 0.6m
Switchgear
and control

Roller doors
Accoustic wall
and window

battery
Ventilatingfan
at high level
300kW

Rotordraw out
clearance
Engine
starting
battery
charger

Roller doors

fitters bench

240v socket outlet

NOTE: Layout not to scale.

Figure 47 Typical layout for two 300kW diesel generator sets

69
80

70

60

50

30

Area shown is that

20 required for two vertical or horizontal
calorifiers with associated pumps
and equipment
/ I
10

5000 10,000 15,000 20,000 25.000

0
Storage Capacity - Litres

Figure 48 Plantroom areas for HWS storage calorifiers

60

Additional space may be required for :

(a) additional calorifiers if more than
2 calorifiers are required to be installed.

0 200 400 600 800 1,000

Heating Capacity - kW

Figure 49 Plantroom areas for heating calorifiers

70
Minimum clearance
around cistern
excluding allowance
for access to
valves and other
equipment.

8OOmm

Figure 50 Sectional elevation on cistern

71
2300mm

Emergency
Manifold.

Pressure Regulators
gauges and
Control Unit.
2 x 4 Manifold.

Spare cylinders
on rack around
wall.

Pressure Regulators
gauges and

2 x 6 Manifold.
Spare Cylinders on Wall Rack
and central double support rack.

Maximum External
2 x 8 manifold Diameter of
Cylinders 200mm

Spare Cylinders arranged vertically

on racks and at 225mm centres.
Cylinders on
Manifolds at
250mm centres.

Figure 51 Typical arrangement of combined manifold and gas cylinder storage rooms

72
FAD, Length ‘A’ Length ‘B’. Room Height
7.2 bar minimum minimum minimum
(Litres) (mm) (mm) (mm)
180 3800 3700 2400

1400 4700 4900 3200

3800 5700 5900 3800

Wall mounted
Control Panel. TWIN
COMPRESSOR
UNIT

Figure 52 Typical plan of medical air compressor plantroom

Capacity at Length ‘A’ Length ‘B’, Room Height

minus 500 Hg minimum minimum minimum
(Litres/min) (mm) (mm) (mm)
180 4200 3900 I 2600

1400 4300 4100 2600

3800 5800 4700 2600

5000 6100 7900 2600

Wall mounted
Control

'A'
73
Figure 53 Typical plan of medical vacuum plantroom
AREAS WHERE OPEN MV & HV LARGE WOODEN SMALL STOCKS OF FUEL GAS
FLAMES, SMOKING SUB STRUCTURES. COMBUSTIBLE VENT PlPES
ARE PERMlTTED STATlONS TIMBER YARDS MATERIAL SITE HUTS

(OTHER THAN AUTHORISED)

PROCESS EQUlPMENT &

MACHINERY WHICH IS
PUBLIC ROADS. NOT PART OF THE
RAILWAY LINE. STORAGE INSTALLATION

L.P.G. STORAGE

PROPERTY BOUNDARIES

CONTINUOUS SECTIONS OF
PIPELINES CONTAINING
FLAMMABLE GASES OR
LIQUIDS NOT INTERRUPTED
BY FITTINGS eg. VALVES.
BULK FLAMMABLE UNIONS. FLANGES ETC.
LIQUID STORAGE

PITS. DUCTS COMPRESSOR/ FLANGES. UNIONS OFFICES, CANTEENS PLACES Of

VENTlLATOR IN PIPELINES & AREAS WHERE PUBLIC
SURFACE WATER
EMPLOYEES/ ASSEMBLY
DRAINS (UNTRAPPED) AIR INTAKES CONTAlNING
FLAMMABLE VlSITORS ARE LIKELY
OPENINGS OF SYSTEMS
GASES OR LlQUIDS TO CONGREGATE.
BELOW GROUND LEVEL

NOTE: (1) The safety distances arc measured from the exposure to:-
a) any point on the storage system where in normal operation oxygen leakage or spillage can occur. or
b) the tank outer jacket. or
c) the vessel nozzles. whichever gives the greater safety distance to the LOX storage tank.
NOTE: (2) Assumed maximum liquid phase pipework diameter 40 mm (1%") nominal bore. for the liquid oxygen piping.
NOTE: (3) For buildings, the distances are measured to the nearest opening in the building, eg doors, windows, ventilation openings.
Ventilator air intakes should be at least 1.0 metre above ground level if within 10 metres of the installation.

Figure 54 Safety distances: distance between oxygen storage and typical exposures for storage tanks up to 20 tonnes net liquid capacity
(in metres)

74
AREAS WHERE OPEN MV & HV LARGE WOODEN SMALL STOCKS OF FUEL GAS
FLAMES SMOKING SUB STRUCTURES. COMBUSTIBLE VENT PIPES
ARE PERMITTED STATIONS TlMBER YARDS MATERlAL, SlTE HUTS.

FLAMMABLE GAS
VEHICLE PARKlNG AREAS CYLINDER STORAGE
(OTHER THAN AUTHORISED) 8

PROCESS EQUIPMENT &

MACHlNERY WHlCH IS
NOT PART OF THE
STORAGE INSTALLATlON

BY FITTINGS eg. VALVES

UNIONS. FLANGES ETC.

PITS, DUCTS COMPRESSOR/ FLANGES. UNIONS OFFICES, CANTEENS PLACES OF

SURFACE WATER VENTILATOR IN PIPELINES & AREAS WHERE PUBLIC
DRAINS (UNTRAPPED) AIR INTAKES CONTAlNlNG EMPLOYEES/ ASSEMBLY
OPENINGS OF SYSTEMS FLAMMABLE VISITORS ARE LIKELY
BELOW GROUND LEVEL GASES OR LIQUIDS TO CONGREGATE

NOTE: (1) The safety distances are measured from the exposure to:-
a) any point on the storage system where in normal operation oxygen leakage or spillage can occur, or
b) the tank outer jacket, or
c) the vessel nozzles. whichever gives the greater safety distance to the LOX storage tank.
NOTE: (2) Assumed maximum liquid phase pipework diameter 50mm (2") nominal bore, for the liquid oxygen piping.
NOTE: (3) For buildings, the distances are measured to the nearest opening in the building eg doors, windows, ventilation openings.
Ventilator air intakes should be at least 1.0 metre above ground level, if within 10 metres of the installation.

Figure 55 Distance between oxygen storage and typical exposures for storage tanks of 20 tonnes to 200 tonnes net liquid capacity
(in metres)

75
Air
Outlet

Piped services at
high level

Fascia
Emergency
Power Isolation
Single Sterilizer

I I
A

Emergency Sterilizer Group

Power isolation
Access for
Maintenance
1. Sliding doors are illustrated and testing
2. Lighting fittings should be installed between and not over sterilizers
3. Refer to Table 8.5 for dimensions
4. For temperature sensor access a 50mm aperature with a swing single fixing cover
should be fitted on the fascia at low level and between each sterilizer.
5. An electrical isolator for each sterilizer should be located in the plantroom.
6. In the working area the distance between the fascia and the opposite wall should be
3 metres or twice the length of the loading carriage.
7. Ventilation air to the plant room may be taken in at low level from the working area
or from an independant source.

Figure 56 Typical layouts (not to scale)

76
400 I 850 l400xl 2600 x 350 1 2750 x 350 PIPE MAlNS ZONE I200I 900 l900I 900 I200I 650x 1 900 I300I

L.P.H.W F&R DROP TO

H/l LEVEL 1
WlTH ISOLATION VALVES
MEDlCAL GASES RISE FROM
TO ISOLATION
FOR LEVEL 2

OXYGEN MAIN

MEDICAL VACU

FIRE MAIN
SMOKE EXTRACT RISING
L/LEVEL SUPPLY FROM LEVEL 1
AIR DUCT FOR SET OVER IN VERTICAL
SMOKE VENTING
(ALTERNATIVE
LOCATION)
CLADDING

PIPE MAINS DROP TO

DIRTY EXTRACT H/LEVEL LEVEL 1
FROM LEVEL 1 FROM LEVEL 1 WlTH ISOLATION VALVES

HOSPITAL STREET

Figure 57 Standard arrangement-engineering shafts level plan

DIRTY EXTRACT SMOKE EXTRACT
FROM LEVEL 2 FROM LEVEL 2
OPTIONAL MEDICAL SUPPLYDUCTS CLEAN EXTRACT
SERVICES VACUUM ACCESS DOOR TO LEVEL 2 FROM LEVEL 2
ACCESS DOOR SMOKE EXTRACT
LOCATION
SUPPLY CTS FROM LEVEL 1
I TO LEVE
OPTIONAL LOCATION
SMOKE EXTRACT
FROM LEVEL 2

COMP TEMP.
L.P.H.W TO
LEVEL 2

FIRE RESISTANT
CLADDING TO DU

ROM LEVEL 1

2650

MEDICAL GASES
TO DEPARTMENT 1175
FIRE RESIST
CLADDING T(

ALTERNATIVE LOCATION
LOW LEVEL SUPPLY LOCATION 24OO
DUCT FOR SMOKE VENTING

LEVEL 1

Figure 58 Standard arrangement-engineering shafts section at street interface

Finished Floor Level

Floor slob.
Beam Depth use for
Drainage Zone 250mm
Main Service
Zone 350mm

crossover zone 200mm

electrical 1OOmm
ceiling grid 1OOmm

2700mm typical
floor to ceiling
height

Activity Space,

Figure 59 Typical sectional elevation through a multi-storey department showing suggested minimum service zones

79
850 I 400 1 2600 x 350 I 2750 x 350 PIPE MAINS ZONE I200I 900 I400l 900 I200I 650x I 900 I 300 I 3 5 0 0 x 350 I4OOzI 850
Ix350 1 VENTILATION ZONE FOR FIRST 2.05 FROM HOSPITAL I 350 I I V E N T I L A T I O N ZONE I 350 I

MAIN SERVICES
II I

ZONING PRINCIPLES

SUPPLY AIR RETURN

PLANT ROOM FLOOR

TYPICAL SERVICES PROVISION

Figure 60 Standard arrangement-flat slab section at department interface

References

Acts and Regulations NHS Estates publications

Electricity Act 1989. HMSO 1989. Health Technical Memorandum (HTMs)

Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974. HMSO 1974.
HTM 2007 - Electrical services: supply and distribution.
SI 2768:1991 The Building Regulations. HMSO 1991.
NHS Estates, HMSO 1993.
SI 1180:1992 The Building Regulations (Amendment)
HTM 2010 - Sterilization. NHS Estates, HMSO 1994,
Regulations. HMSO 1992.
1995.
SI 2179:1990 (S 187) The Building Standards (Scotland)
HTM 2022 - Medical gas pipeline systems. NHS Estates,
Regulations. HMSO 1990.
HMSO 1994.
Sl 3140:1994 The Construction (Design and
HTM 2027 - Hot and cold water supply. NHS Estates,
Management) Regulations. HMSO 1994.
HMSO 1995.
Sl 635:1989 The Electricity at Work Regulations. HMSO
1989.
SI 13:1991 The Electricity at Work (Northern Ireland) Firecode publications
Regulations. HMSO 1991.
Firecode: policy and principles. NHS Estates, HMSO
SI 1057:1988 The Electricity Supply Regulations. HMSO
1994.
1988.
Firecode: Nucleus fire precautions recommendations.
Sl 390:1990 The Electricity Supply Regulations
Department of Health, HMSO 1989.
(Amendment). HMSO 1990.
Firecode: directory of fire documents. Department of
SI 2961:1992 The Electricity Supply Regulations
Health, HMSO 1987.
(Amendment). HMSO 1992.
HTM 81 - Fire precautions in new hospitals. DHSS,
SI 536:1991 The Electricity Supply (Northern Ireland)
HMSO 1987.
Regulations. HMSO 1991.
HTM 81 Supplement 1 - Fire precautions in new
Sl 1039:1978 (NI 9) Health and Safety at Work
hospitals. NHS Estates, HMSO 1993.
(Northern Ireland) Order. HMSO 1978.
HTM 82 - Firecode: alarm and detection systems. NHS
Sl 917:1972 Highly Flammable Liquids and Liquefied
Estates, HMSO 1989.
Petroleum Gases Regulations. HMSO 1972.
HTM 83 -Fire safety in healthcare premises: general
SR 256:1975 Highly Flammable Liquids and Liquefied
fire precautions. NHS Estates, HMSO 1994.
Petroleum Gases (Northern Ireland) Regulations.
HTM 85 - Fire precautions in existing hospitals. NHS
HMSO 1975.
Estates, HMSO 1994.
SI 2051:1992 The Management of Health and Safety at
HTM 86 - Fire risk assessment in hospitals. NHS Estates,
Work Regulations. HMSO 1992.
HMSO 1994.
SI 459:1992 The Management of Health and Safety at
HTM 87 - Firecode: textiles and furniture. NHS Estates,
Work Regulations (Northern Ireland). HMSO 1992.
HMSO 1993.
SI 2793:1992 The Manual Handling Operations
HTM 88 -Fire safety in health care premises. DHSS,
Regulations. HMSO 1992.
HMSO 1986.
SR 535:1992 The Manual Handling Operations
Fire Practice Note 1 - Laundries. Department of Health,
Regulations (Northern Ireland). HMSO 1992.
HMSO 1987.
SI 2932:1992 The Provision and Use of Work
Fire Practice Note 2 - Storage of flammable liquids.
Equipment Regulations. HMSO 1992.
Department of Health, HMSO 1987.
SR 19:1993 The Provision and Use of Work Equipment
Fire Practice Note 3 - Escape bed lifts. Department of
Regulations (Northern Ireland). HMSO 1993.
Health, HMSO 1987.
SI 1741:1980 Safety Signs Regulations. HMSO 1980.
Fire Practice Note 4 - Hospital main kitchens. NHS
SR 352:1981 Safety Signs (Northern Ireland)
Estates, HMSO 1994.
Regulations. HMSO 1981:
Fire Practice Note 5 - Commercial enterprises on
Sl 3004:1992 The Workplace (Health, Safety and
hospital premises. NHS Estates, HMSO 1992.
Welfare) Regulations. HMSO 1992.
Fire Practice Note 6 -Arson prevention and control in
SR 37:1993 The Workplace (Health, Safety and
NHS healthcare premises. NHS Estates, HMSO 1994.
Welfare) Regulations (Northern Ireland). HMSO 1993.

81
References

British Standards Miscellaneous publications

BS349:1973 Specification for identification of the contents Keeping of LPG in cylinders and similar containers
of industrial gas containers (AMD 6132, 5/89). (CS 4). Health and Safety Executive, HMSO 1986.
BS1319:1976 (1986) Specification for medical gas Entry into confined spaces (GS 5). Health and Safety
cylinders, valves and yoke connections (AMD 3029, 6/79; Executive, HMSO 1977 (out of print).
AMD 4603, 6/84). Space allowances for building services distribution
BS5378 Safety signs and colours. systems: detail design stage (TN 10/92). Building
BS5499 Fire safety signs, notices and graphic symbols. Services Research and Information Association (BSRIA),
1992.
The safe storage of gaseous hydrogen in seamless
cylinders and similar containers (CP 8). British
Compressed Gases Association, 1986.
Other publications in this series

(Given below are details of all Health Technical 56 Partitions, 1989.

Memoranda available from HMSO. HTMs marked (*) are 57 Internal glazing, 1995.
currently being revised, those marked (t) are out of print. 58 Internal doorsets, 1989.
Some HTMs in preparation at the time of publication of this 59 lronmongeryt
HTM are also listed.) 60 Ceilings, 1989.
61 Flooring*
1 Anti-static precautions: rubber, plastics and fabricit 62 Demountable storage systems, 1989.
2 Anti-static precautions: flooring in anaesthetising 63 Fitted storage systems, 1989.
areas (and data processing rooms), 1977. 64 Sanitary assemblies*
3 - 65 Health signs*
4 - 66 Cubicle curtain track, 1989.
5 Steam boiler plant instrumentationt 67 Laboratory fitting-out system, 1993.
6 Protection of condensate systems: filming aminest 68 Ducts and panel assemblies, 1993.
2007 Electrical services: supply and distribution, 1993. 69 Protection, 1993.
8 - 70 Fixings, 1993.
2009 Pneumatic air tube transport systems, 1995. 71 Materials management modular system*
2010 Sterilizers, 1994, 1995. 72 to 80 -
2011 Emergency electrical services, 1993.
12 -
13 - Firecode
2014 Abatement of electrical interference, 1993. 81 Firecode: fire precautions in new hospitals*
2015 Bedhead services, 1994, 1995. 81 Supp 1, 1993.
16 -
82 Firecode: alarm and detection systems, 1989.
17 Health building engineering installations: 83 Fire safety in healthcare premises; general fire
commissioning and associated activities, 1978. precautions, 1994.
18 Facsimile telegraphy: possible applications in DGHst 85 Firecode: fire precautions in existing hospitals,
19 Facsimile telegraphy: the transmission of pathology 1994.
reports within a hospital -a case studyt 86 Firecode: fire risk assessment in existing hospitals,
2020 Electrical safety code for low voltage systems, 1993. 1994.
2021 Electrical safety code for high voltage systems, 87 Firecode: textiles and furniture, 1993.
1993, 1994. 88 Fire safety in health care premises: guide to fire
2022 Medical gas pipeline systems, 1994. precautions in NHS housing in the community for
2025 Ventilation in healthcare premises, 1994. mentally handicapped/ill people, 1986.
26 Commissioning of oil, gas and dual fired boilers:
with notes on design, operation and maintenancet
2027 Hot and cold water supply, storage and mains New HTMs in preparation
services, 1995.
28 to 39 - 2024 Lifts
2040 The control of legionellae in healthcare premises-a 2030 Washer-disinfectors
code of practice, 1993.
41 to 49 - Health Technical Memoranda published by HMSO can be
2050 Risk assessment in the NHS estate, 1994. purchased from HMSO Bookshops in London (post orders
51 to 53 - to PO Box 276, SW8 5DT), Edinburgh, Belfast, Manchester,
2055 Telecommunications (telephone exchanges), 1994. Birmingham and Bristol or through good booksellers.
HMSO provide a copy service for publications which are out
of print; and a standing order service.
Component Data Base (HTMs 54 to 70)
Enquiries about Health Technical Memoranda (but not
54.1 User manual, 1993 orders) should be addressed to: NHS Estates, Department of
55 Windows, 1989. Health, Marketing Unit, 1 Trevelyan Square, Boar Lane,
Leeds LS1 6AE.

83
About NHS Estates

NHS Estates is an Executive Agency of the Department of Health Facilities Notes-debate current and topical issues
Health and is involved with all aspects of health estate of concern across all areas of healthcare provision. HMSO
management, development and maintenance. The Agency
has a dynamic fund of knowledge which it has acquired Firecode - for policy, technical guidance and specialist
during 30 years of working in the field. Using this aspects of fire precautions. HMSO
knowledge NHS Estates has developed products which are
unique in range and depth. These are described below. NHS Capital Investment Manual Database -software
Estates also makes its experience available to the field support for managing the capital programme. Compatible
through its consultancy services. with the Capital Investment Manual. NHS Estates

Enquiries about NHS Estates should be addressed to: NHS Model Engineering Specifications -comprehensive
Estates, Marketing Unit, Department of Health, 1 Trevelyan advice used in briefing consultants, contractors and
Square, Boar Lane, Leeds LS1 6AE. suppliers of healthcare engineering services to meet
Telephone: 0113 254 7000. Departmental policy and best practice guidance. NHS
Estates

Some other NHS Estates products Quarterly Briefing -gives a regular overview on the
construction industry and an outlook on how this may
Activity DataBase - a computerised system for defining affect building projects in the health sector, in particular the
the activities which have to be accommodated in spaces impact on business prices. Also provides information on
within health buildings. NHS Estates new and revised cost allowances for health buildings.
Published four times a year; available on subscription direct
Design Guides -complementary to Health Building Notes, from NHS Estates. NHS Estates
Design Guides provide advice for planners and designers
about subjects not appropriate to the Health Building Notes Works Guidance Index - an annual, fully cross-referenced
series. HMSO index listing all NHS Estates publications and other
documents related to the construction and equipping of
Estatecode -user manual for managing a health estate. health buildings. NHS Estates
Includes a recommended methodology for property
appraisal and provides a basis for integration of the estate Items noted "HMSO" can be purchased from HMSO
into corporate business planning. HMSO Bookshops in London (post orders to PO Box 276, SW8
5DT). Edinburgh, Belfast, Manchester, Birmingham
Concode -outlines proven methods of selecting contracts and Bristol or through good booksellers.
and commissioning consultants. Reflects official policy on
contract procedures. HMSO
NHS Estates consultancy service
Works Information Management System -
a computerised information system for estate management Designed to meet a range of needs from advice on the
tasks, enabling tangible assets to be put into the context of oversight of estates management functions to a much fuller
servicing requirements. NHS Estates collaboration for particularly innovative or exemplary
projects.
Health Building Notes -advice for project teams
procuring new buildings and adapting or extending existing Enquiries should be addressed to: NHS Estates Consultancy
buildings. HMSO Service (address as above).

Health Guidance Notes -an occasional series of

publications which respond to changes in Department
of Health policy or reflect changing NHS operational
management, Each deals with a specific topic and is
complementary to a related HTM. HMSO

Printed in the United Kingdom for HMSO.

Dd 300388 C15 3/95 17647

84