Sprinkler System Upgrades

PROJECT PROFILE

Sprinkler System Upgrades (Hospital-Wide) Location: Advocate Christ Medical Center, Oak Lawn, Illinois Architect: FPC Delivery Method: Construction Manager at Risk

PROJECT OUTCOME

Michuda Construction successfully completed a comprehensive hospital-wide sprinkler system upgrade at Advocate Christ Medical Center, significantly enhancing fire safety throughout the facility. This project demonstrated Michuda’s ability to execute complex, high-risk work within an occupied hospital setting with precision and care, ensuring minimal disruption to patients, staff, and ongoing operations.

PROJECT SCOPE

Michuda Construction served as Construction Manager at Risk for a hospital-wide sprinkler system upgrade project, ensuring compliance with the latest fire safety standards and enhancing protection across the entire facility. The work was carried out with a meticulous focus on maintaining hospital operations and patient safety.

The scope of work included:

• Installation of Sprinkler Systems Throughout the Hospital: Comprehensive upgrades to existing fire suppression systems, extending coverage to all required areas.

• Occupied Space Coordination: Execution of all work within a fully operational hospital environment, requiring detailed coordination with hospital staff to minimize disruptions and ensure patient and staff safety at all times.

• System Integration and Testing: Integration of the upgraded sprinkler systems with existing building infrastructure, including rigorous testing to ensure operational effectiveness and compliance with fire safety codes.

• Infection Control Measures: Implementation of Infection Control Risk Assessment (ICRA) measures to protect sensitive patient care areas during construction activities, with strict protocols for dust and debris control.
  

CHALLENGES & SOLUTIONS

The sprinkler system upgrade presented several challenges, which Michuda addressed through effective strategies and meticulous planning:

1. High-Risk Work in Occupied Space: Performing fire safety upgrades in a fully occupied hospital environment posed significant risks and required careful planning to prevent any disruptions to patient care. Michuda coordinated closely with hospital staff, scheduling work during off-peak hours and implementing strict safety and infection control measures.

2. Complex Phased Approach: To ensure continuous hospital operations, the project was executed in multiple phases, each carefully planned and executed to minimize impact on patient care areas. Coordination with various hospital departments was key to maintaining safety and operational efficiency.

3. System Integration Challenges: The integration of new sprinkler systems with existing infrastructure required meticulous planning and testing. Michuda’s team ensured a seamless transition through careful sequencing of work and collaboration with engineering teams.