Laboratory Equipment Replacement

PROJECT PROFILE

Lab New Instrument Installation Client: ACL Laboratories Location: Advocate Christ Medical Center, Oak Lawn, Illinois Delivery Method: Construction Manager at Risk

PROJECT OUTCOME

Michuda Construction successfully completed the Lab New Instrument Installation project for ACL Laboratories at Advocate Christ Medical Center. This project focused on modernizing the lab environment to accommodate advanced instrumentation, enhancing operational efficiency and compliance within an active healthcare setting.

PROJECT SCOPE

Michuda Construction provided Construction Management at Risk services for the installation of new lab instruments at ACL Laboratories. The project involved comprehensive infrastructure upgrades and modifications to support state-of-the-art equipment, executed within an active hospital environment to ensure minimal disruption.

The scope of work included:

• General Conditions & Temporary Measures: Onsite supervision, infection control, temporary enclosures, interim life safety measures, and clean-up services to maintain a safe environment for hospital staff and patients during construction.

• Demolition: Removal and disposal of existing power and utility poles, ceiling tiles, flooring, and MEP components to prepare the space for new equipment.

• Concrete Work: Installation of concrete pads for new air compressors and floor patching at abandoned MEP openings.

• Carpentry: Installation of new power and utility poles, fire-stopping, and adjustments to existing millwork to accommodate new laboratory equipment.

• Finishes: Floor preparation, VCT replacement, and patching and painting of existing columns to align with the updated laboratory space’s aesthetics.

• Plumbing: Installation of new cup sinks, DI water stubs, cold water lines, and modifications to supply, waste, and vent piping, as well as floor drain adjustments.

• Mechanical Upgrades: Disconnection and installation of piping, valves, filters, and exhaust ducts for new compressors and HVAC system enhancements.

• Electrical Modifications: Installation of new panel boards, data and power poles, transformers, and feeds to support lab instrumentation, including relocation of existing circuits to align with the new configuration.
  

CHALLENGES & SOLUTIONS

Michuda Construction addressed various challenges inherent in this project with effective strategies to ensure successful completion:

1. Occupied Space Coordination: Given the project’s location within an active hospital environment, phased scheduling and stringent infection control measures were employed to minimize disruption to hospital operations and patient care.

2. Complex Utility Upgrades: Significant MEP modifications were necessary to accommodate the new lab equipment. Michuda collaborated with engineering teams to seamlessly integrate new plumbing, mechanical, and electrical systems into the existing infrastructure.

3. Temporary Safety and Enclosures: Temporary enclosures and strict adherence to life safety protocols were implemented to maintain a secure and controlled environment for hospital staff and patients throughout construction.
   

KEY PROJECT ELEMENTS

• Comprehensive MEP Upgrades: Integration of utility systems to support advanced laboratory instrumentation.

• Demolition and Modernization: Complete removal and replacement of outdated systems to create a contemporary laboratory space.

• Phased Construction in Active Setting: Maintained hospital operations and patient care through strategic scheduling and rigorous safety protocols.