RACA Journal May 2021 | Page 7

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News
Continued from page 3
Six-filter safe-change filter housing with three stages of filtration installed at the GJ Crooks Hospital Block A . Dirty air is filtered and discharged at high level . during Level 5 of the Covid-19 pandemic national lockdown meant that there was a challenge to transport equipment in the designated times .
Another challenge was sourcing equipment and access to materials to the site when some businesses were closed or reluctant to exit isolation for fear of contracting the virus . Trusted suppliers and vendors took the plunge to avail themselves and their offering to the project , this was motivated by the need and professional relationships formed before the project . The efficient workflow of the team meant that they were able to complete projects which would normally take one year in the space of three months .
The maintenance of social distancing while on the ground was also a challenge for the hospital installation project – particularly because of the confined workspaces . At some stage cameras were installed on site to ensure that progress was easily observed without stakeholders having to be physically present where construction was happening .
“ Hats off to our staff , they worked flat out . So much so at some stage we had to stop for a day so they would not burn out ,” remarked Moodley .
The final challenge identified was obtaining permits for the relevant stakeholders to be able to deliver the material needed for the project , interprovincially . Moodley recalls having a renewed appreciation for the materials and ecosystem which comes together during such a project .
Through the challenges faced , his takeaway was the way so many different elements come together for one specific goal – something often underestimated before the onset of the pandemic . RACA
Trox air handling units coupled with LG VRV condensers at the GJ Crooks Hospital maternity building in Scotsburgh , KwaZulu-Natal .
The isolation wards at the GJ Crooks Hospital .

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