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Project
INNOVATIVE HVAC SYSTEM AT BARAGWANATH HOSPITAL ' S BURNS ICU ENHANCES PATIENT CARE
Technical input by Kamva Ndlala , Maninga Engineering consulting engineer , edited by Eamonn Ryan
Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital recently built an adult burns intensive care unit ( ICU ) – a key aspect of its efficient functioning was the HVAC system , aiming to optimise patient comfort and recovery conditions .
All images supplied by Maninga Engineering .
The project , funded by a donation from Wits University alumni , was started in late 2021 , with the goal to establish a state-of-the-art adult burns unit . Burn victims require specific environmental conditions due to the loss of their skin ' s protective layers , making temperature and humidity control critical . Following international standards , the burns ICU is maintained at a temperature range of 26 ° C to 28 ° C with humidity levels between 50-60 %, significantly higher than typical healthcare settings .
Maninga Engineering lead engineer , Kamva Ndlala , details the technical aspects of the HVAC system installed . " We opted for hybrid air handling units with a three-stage filtration system . This includes primary , secondary , and tertiary ( HEPA ) filters to ensure the air is free from contaminants , especially crucial
The Maninga Engineering project team ( left to right ): Daniel Delport , Lungelo Sibande , Kamva Ndlala , Sikhulile Nhassengo . in an ICU environment . We also installed Daikin VRF ( Variable Refrigerant Flow ) units to aid in the conditioning of the air ."
The VRF technology was chosen for its ability to modulate based on fluctuating load demands within the ICU , ensuring energy efficiency without compromising on patient comfort or environmental control . Each room is maintained at positive pressure relative to corridors and external spaces , achieved through individualised air diffusers and VAV ( Variable Air Volume ) systems with room-specific sensors for precise monitoring and adjustment .
The project also grappled with energy efficiency challenges , particularly in humidification during winter . " To manage energy consumption effectively , we integrated a steam-to-steam humidifier . This innovative approach leverages existing hospital infrastructure , such as boilers , to minimise additional electrical load ."
Commencing with groundwork in late 2021 , the project moved into installation phases by 2023 , with completion achieved recently . " It was a comprehensive undertaking from scratch . The entire structure was erected to meet the exacting standards required for a burns ICU ."
Throughout the project , collaboration with structural engineers and other consultants was pivotal . Ndlala highlights the seamless coordination with external partners in achieving project milestones .
Critical to the design and energy efficiency , was a preexisting boiler at the hospital . Its vast capacity as a strategic advantage , Ndlala explains , " The hospital ' s boilers , originally used for water heating , proved instrumental in our humidification strategy . By utilising steam from these boilers , we minimised additional electrical load and ensured consistent , isothermal humidification — essential for maintaining air temperature stability and system reliability ."
Ndlala emphasises the project ' s commitment to sustainability and cost-effectiveness . " Our approach was to
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RACA Journal I October 2024 www . refrigerationandaircon . co . za