Facility Management Research Articles

Determinants of health-seeking behaviour in rural district of Jasikan, Ghana: a cross-sectional study

BackgroundThe Ghana Health Service aims to ensure the health of all Ghanaians. Understanding the factors that influence people’s health-seeking behaviour will help the Ghana Health Service evaluate and enact policies that will enable it to achieve set targets. This research aimed to determine the factors that influence the health-seeking behaviour of the residents of Jasikan District and ascertain the importance of the well-being clinic in this context.MethodsThe study design was a community-based cross-sectional study using a mixed method of data collection. A stratified sample of 295 respondents from the five [5] sub-districts of the target population was obtained. Cramer’s V statistic was used to assess the effect size and significance of the association between categorical variables. Further, multiple binary logistic regression was used to determine significant predictors of health-seeking behaviour. Health seeking behaviour was categorised as appropriate or inappropriate. The health seeking behaviour of participants was considered appropriate if they sought health care at public health facilities, private health facilities, and licensed Pharmacies/OTCMS and inappropriate when participants sough care at traditional/faith healers, engaging in self-medication, and not taking action during an illness episode.ResultsThe mean age of participants in the study was 37.49 ± 15.74 years. Females comprised the majority of study respondents (160; 56.3%). When they fell ill, 61% of respondents chose formal public health institutions as the first port of call. A significant proportion of respondents (245; 83%) preferred appropriate health-seeking behaviour, with age (p = 0.045) and health insurance status (p < 0.01) significantly influencing where respondents sought care. More than half of respondents indicated that affordable service (59.9%), readily available drugs (54.5%), and good services (52.0%) are key characteristics of respondents’ preference for service in healthcare. The educational level significantly correlated with service characteristics when people seek health care (p = 0.035). The severity of illness (9; 28.1%), perception of a facility as the best place (7; 21.9%), well-trained staff (4; 12.5%), and professionalism (3; 9.4%) influenced respondents’ choice of health care. More than half (78%) of respondents agreed with the need for a well-being clinic in a hospital. The binary logistic regression indicates that religion is a significant predictor the appropriateness of participants’ health seeking behaviour, but the overall model could not improve the overall prediction rate of the constant model.ConclusionThe health-seeking behaviour of the people of Jasikan is good. The participants’ sex, good service, affordability, and availability of medicines are critical service characteristics that influence the choice of healthcare providers. Managers of health facilities should consider these characteristics to remain competitive and drive positive health-seeking behaviour in the community. Facilities are encouraged to set up a functional well-being clinic and open it to the public.

BIM Driving Innovation in Construction Industry: Advancements in Building Lifecycle Management and Facility Management

With the rapid development of the traditional construction industry, China's construction market is becoming saturated and overcapacity, and the global macro economy is facing uncertainty. Negatively impacted by global events and the climate crisis, the willingness of traditional architectural firms to invest in real estate, infrastructure and other projects needs to be higher. The enhancement of digital information technology has brought greater freedom and openness, and traditional architects are looking to BIM technology to stimulate creativity and build more dynamic buildings. This paper analyses the development and application of BIM technology from the perspective of the BIM+ intelligent management model. It discusses the importance of upgrading the traditional construction industry, especially in building life cycle management. Through BIM+ intelligent management, the traditional construction industry can handle the information in all project stages more efficiently and achieve the goal of resource integration. At the same time, the combination of BIM and facility management can realise intelligent operation and monitoring of building projects. This paper reviews related research and looks forward to the future research direction of combining BIM and building facility management.

ISLAMIC BASED ECO-FRIENDLY CHARACTER EDUCATION: A CASE STUDY OF ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS IN BANJARMASIN

This study describes Islamic-based eco-friendly character education and its implications in elementary schools in Banjarmasin. This study used a qualitative approach, case study type with the research objects of the principal, teachers, and students. Research data were collected through observation, interviews and documentation. Data were analyzed by reducing data, presenting data and drawing conclusions. The researcher used technical triangulation and source triangulation to obtain data validity. The researcher found that Islamic-based eco-friendly character education was carried out through several activities, namely daily reports, GPS (trash collection movement), LISA (see trash pick up) habits, community service, waste banks, composting, nurseries, hydroponics planting, TOGA planting, water and energy conservation, eco-friendly behavioral innovation, environmental learning, formation of Adiwiyata cadres and coaching of Adiwiyata schools. The implications of Islamic-based eco-friendly character education in elementary schools in Banjarmasin refer to four components, namely environmentally aware school policies, implementation of environmentally based curriculum, participatory environmental activities and management of eco-friendly facilities and infrastructure

Optimization of Facilities and Infrastructure Management in Improving the Quality of Learning at Madrasah Ibtidaiyah

The school must also be able to maintain and care for the existing facilities and infrastructure. Thus, students can learn optimally and effectively thanks to school facilities and infrastructure. The aims of this study were (1) to describe how the Planning of Educational Facilities and Infrastructure at M.I.S. Guppi 13 Tasikmalaya, (2) to describe how the Procurement of Educational Facilities and Infrastructure at M.I.S. Guppi 13 Tasikmalaya, (3) to describe how the Maintenance of Facilities and Infrastructure Education at M.I.S. Guppi 13 Tasikmalaya, (4) to describe how efforts to improve the management of educational facilities and infrastructure should be carried out in the future. The method used is field research (field research), which uses a qualitative descriptive approach. This study has three data analysis steps: reduction, presentation of data (display data), and conclusion (Verification). The research results show several conclusions, one of which is that M.I.S. Guppi 13 Tasikmalaya focuses on the administration, provision, usage, and upkeep of educational infrastructure. However, the implementation may be improved even though infrastructure and educational facilities are crucial for supporting teaching and learning activities.

Real-Time Indoor Environmental Quality (IEQ) Monitoring Using an IoT-Based Wireless Sensing Network.

In recent years, our time spent indoors has risen to around 90% and to maintain an occupant's comfort and well-being, Indoor Environmental Quality (IEQ) is monitored. Concerned with inhabitant's satisfaction and health, the adoption of smart solutions for IEQ monitoring and improvement has expanded. The solution this study explores is an occupant-centric approach involving the implementation of an Internet of Things (IoT) IEQ sensing network in a prominent office skyscraper in Hong Kong. Over the course of 15 months, real-time IEQ data were collected from 12 locations within the building. The data were collected at 1-min time intervals and consisted of readings of indoor air temperature, radiant temperature, relative humidity, air velocity, carbon dioxide (CO2), particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5), horizontal illuminance levels, and sound pressure levels, which served as the basis of the assessment made about the qualities of thermal comfort, indoor air quality (IAQ), aural comfort, and visual comfort. Compared to traditional periodic surveys, this IoT-based sensing network captured instantaneous environmental variations, providing valuable insights into the indoor environment's spatial characterization and temporal dynamics. This smart solution also assisted facility management in terms of identifying sources of discomfort and developing effective mitigation strategies accordingly. This study presents an occupant-centric approach to improve occupant comfort and energy efficiency within office buildings. By customizing the built environment to enhance occupants' well-being, comfort, and productivity, an emphasis is placed on a more personalized and occupant-focused design strategy. This approach integrates technical design with human experience, highlighting the importance of real-time physical and subjective surveys for achieving optimal results.

Transforming leaders to transform hospitals. Cultivating ethical leadership for compassionate healthcare

The importance of compassionate care has been widely acknowledged in the literature as a crucial component for enhancing patient care, improving clinical outcomes, and reducing burnout, compassion fatigue, malpractice, and healthcare costs (Watts et al., 2023). However, many healthcare systems continue to struggle with effectively implementing and sustaining compassionate care practices due to the burden of administration, limitations in resources, and a focus on efficiency and profitability. The purpose of this paper is to advocate for the necessity of (re) “humanizing” the healthcare environment, which is urgently needed today to counteract the trend of eroding the value or essence of care practices by refocusing on the patient and their family. Specifically, this paper will argue that to reverse this trend, it is crucial to transform the education of healthcare facility leaders and managers at all levels. It is vital to provide them with guidelines and training that is not only technical but also ethical, with a focus on character education. This approach would enable them to recognize the right values and effectively address complex situations from a moral perspective. Providing leaders with the opportunity to flourish through dedicated programs can positively transform our hospitals and healthcare facilities. Such programs are essential for creating a balanced healthcare environment where efficiency and compassionate care coexist, leading to improved care outcomes, reduced costs, and enhanced well-being for professionals.

Transforming fire protection: AI's evolving role in proactive and reactive applications

Abstract. This paper comprehensively reviews the applications of artificial intelligence (AI) in the field of fire protection. It traces the historical development of AI, from its origins in the 1930s and 1940s to its current state, focusing on major milestones and algorithms that have shaped the field. The paper discusses the evolution of AI, particularly in terms of machine learning, deep learning, and the emergence of various models such as deep neural networks (DNNs), transformer models, and graph neural networks (GNNs). The application of AI in fire protection is explored in two primary categories: proactive and reactive applications. Proactive applications encompass AI's role in decision-making, construction, and operation, including the use of machine learning for environmental analysis, building information modelling (BIM) for design optimization, 3D printing and intelligent robots in construction, and intelligent fire facility management. Reactive applications focus on early fire detection and monitoring, especially in forests, utilizing terrestrial, aerial, and satellite systems equipped with advanced sensors and deep learning techniques. This paper highlights the significant contributions of AI in mitigating fire risks, improving fire detection and response, and enhancing the safety and efficiency of fire protection systems.

Impact of Debris Removal Post-Wildfires on Pavement Fatigue and Rutting Lives: Case Studies of California’s Camp and Carr Fires

Between 2017 and 2018, California experienced a series of four devastating fires, including the Camp and Carr Fires, which ranked among the most destructive fires in U.S. history. During these fires, roads were critical in the evacuation, rescue operations, goods transportation, and access to critical services. Additionally, postfire, road infrastructure became crucial for removing hazardous and nonhazardous waste from fire-affected areas to major landfills and recycling facilities. Despite the significance of pavements in this process, previous studies have not quantitatively assessed the potential damage caused to pavements by the additional trucks used in debris removal operations. This research aimed to address this knowledge gap by collecting precise traffic data for the routes taken to waste management facilities, including data on the number of trips involved in debris transportation. The traffic information was then utilized to calculate changes in equivalent single axle loads and traffic index values for pavement design. Pavement structures were obtained from the available core database. Pavement simulation results showed that of the nine studied highways, only one exhibited a reduction in cracking life of about 2 years. However, Skyway, the main artery in the town of Paradise, demonstrated a significantly accelerated fatigue cracking failure by 14.3 years. A sensitivity analysis of fire intensity showed other highway sections that were structurally adequate could be affected by larger fires. The presented methodology could be used in traffic planning as part of debris management operations to avoid vulnerable pavement sections.

Artificial intelligence in healthcare facilities asset information management: mixed review

Healthcare facilities are pivotal in ensuring continuous access to services, particularly for individuals with complex health conditions. Effective asset information management (AIM) in these facilities through artificial intelligence (AI) can enhance operational efficiency. The exploratory bibliometric and systematic review assesses the status and trends of AI applications in AIM within healthcare facilities. The findings reveal a significant gap between research findings and practical implementation, highlighting the need for further integration and real-world usage of AI-powered solutions in healthcare facilities settings. This study identified notable gaps, including the need for research on utilising AI to enhance asset management in healthcare, including maintenance scheduling and procurement processes. Involving stakeholders, such as healthcare professionals, facility managers, and patients, in effective facility management using AI requires further investigation. Research is needed to evaluate the economic benefits and develop robust ethical guidelines for responsible AI implementation. Notably, previous research has given limited attention to AI for healthcare AIM, with emerging trends focusing more on AI and infrastructure than the ‘asset’ aspect. Implementing AI-powered solutions tailored to the unique needs of healthcare facilities and evaluating cost-effectiveness will lead to improved asset management practices, enhanced decision-making processes, and, ultimately, more efficient and effective healthcare operations.

Developing a Workflow for Transforming BIM Models into Immersive Virtual Reality Experiences

Abstract. The integration of Extended Reality (XR) and Building Information Modelling (BIM) has emerged as a promising approach for enhancing interaction with spatial data in the built environment. While the potential of BIM for advanced visualization has been recognized, there remains a need for standardized workflows that facilitate the transformation of BIM models into immersive virtual reality (VR) experiences. This research contributes to the ongoing development of BIM-VR integration by presenting a workflow that leverages Revit, Twinmotion, and Datasmith to create visually rich and interactive VR environments. The established process focuses on enhancing textures, incorporating dynamic lighting and weather simulations, and populating the virtual space with realistic elements. The workflow also addresses the integration of interactable objects to elevate user engagement and the use of cutting-edge VR headsets for an immersive experience. By providing a structured approach to bridging complex BIM data with VR, this research aims to support architects, engineers, construction professionals, and clients in design collaboration, project review, and decision-making across the building lifecycle. The workflow's potential for facilities management and training applications is also explored. Through a case study, the research demonstrates the workflow's effectiveness in facilitating a deeper understanding of architectural spaces before construction, highlighting its potential for improving efficiency and reducing rework. The paper also discusses the challenges and opportunities associated with integrating BIM with GIS and sensor data to create comprehensive digital twins. This research contributes to the growing body of knowledge on BIM-VR integration and underscores the importance of continued development in this field to enhance the design, communication, and experience of the built environment.

Smart Building Digital Twin for Interior Water Distribution System Management

Abstract. A smart campus integrates the Internet of Things, artificial intelligence, and real-time sensor data to optimize campus functions and create a context-aware decision-support platform for effective campus management. A crucial aspect of a smart campus is the water distribution system, which faces several challenges due to bursts, leaks, and water quality issues. This study uses Digital Twin technology to address these challenges through real-time monitoring, detection, and management of campus water distribution networks. A building-level digital twin is developed for the interior water networks of the Daphne Cockwell Complex at Toronto Metropolitan University. The major components include a 3D network model capable of analysis and simulations, a smart water management system, and real-time visualization. A 3D static model of the interior water utility network is created using the Industrial Foundation Class data. The semantic and topological models based on graph models are developed for network analysis. The models are integrated into the ESRI ArcGIS Pro to facilitate BIM-GIS integration. A dynamic model is created by incorporating automatic meter readings based on IoT. Combined with the 3D model of the utility network, the digital twin monitors and visualizes building water consumption, facilitating anomaly detection and real-time maintenance by the facilities management department. This study provides practical guidance for managing water distribution systems in university buildings, with potential applications in other complex environments. Future work aims to develop a system for detecting complex event processes by integrating different utilities.

The digital twin framework: A roadmap to the development of user- centred digital twin in the built environment

With the prompt digital revolution in architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC), it is crucial to set the early practical steps for advanced digital technology namely digital twin technology. Although theoretical evidence on the potential of digital twins exists in AEC scope, the practical framework to the construction and operation of user-centred digital twin is yet to be investigated. Hence, this applied research investigates systematic methods and techniques for the construction and enablement of a user-centred digital twin paving the way to advanced digital applications in AEC centred on the user of the built environment. As a result, the framework unleashes a systematic roadmap to the creation and development of a city-scale digital twin centred on the human and capable of describing, analyzing, and assessing a built context per its users and usability manner. Further, the framework pours the foundations for a spectrum of digital twin applications in the scope of architectural design, building construction, infrastructure engineering, and facility management. The production of this research is foreseen to outline a systematic and transferable framework for the construction and enablement of a user-centred digital twin.

Regulatory and legal principles of management of sports schools for children and youth

The activities of sports schools for children and youth play a key role in shaping the physical culture of young people, promoting a healthy lifestyle, and preparing future professional athletes. The successful functioning of these schools relies on appropriate legal frameworks that outline the operational rules, requirements for educational processes, funding, and management of facilities. there is a pressing need to analyze the current legal framework governing the management of sports school for children and youth. Considering the constant changes in the legislation and the growing requirements for the quality of sports institutions, there is a pressing need to analyze the current legal framework governing the management of sports schools for children and youth. The purpose of this article is to analyze the regulatory and legal principles of managing the activities of sports schools for children and youth in Ukraine. The key legislative acts regulating the organizational, financial, and legal aspects of the functioning of sports schools for children and youth have been analyzed, including the Constitution of Ukraine, the Law ‘On Physical Culture and Sports,’ and the orders of the Ministry of Education and Science and the Ministry of Youth and Sports. This resolution provides a comprehensive framework for the operation of sports schools for children and youth as well as defines the forms of ownership, legal foundations of their activities, funding procedures, and requirements for athlete training. Particular attention is given to the state social standard in physical culture and sports, which sets requirements for the quality of services, infrastructure, and athlete training. The mechanisms of management that contribute to increasing the efficiency of sports schools for children and youth are highlighted.

Strategi Pengembangan Daya Tarik Wisatawan terhadap Minat Kunjung pada New Celosia Bandungan

The Indonesian region has a wealth of natural and cultural resources that provide large capital for the tourism sector. Tourism is one of the creative economies that is currently in the development stage. New Celosia Bandungan is one of the tourist destinations that has high appeal in the Bandungan area, Central Java. This research aims to analyze strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats (SWOT) as well as policy analysis that can be carried out to develop tourist attractions owned by New Celosia as a tourist destination. The method used in this research is a qualitative approach with data collection through field observations, interviews with informants, and documentation. The analysis results show that New Celosia has several strengths, such as affordable ticket prices, attractive photo spots, and complete facilities. However, weaknesses were also found, such as non-functioning rides and relatively expensive food prices. Regarding opportunities, the strategic location and increasing tourism demand provide potential for further development. On the other hand, threats such as competition with other tourist attractions and extreme weather must also be anticipated. Based on this SWOT analysis, it is recommended that New Celosia Tourism improve the management of facilities and services, as well as take advantage of existing development opportunities to increase visiting interest and competitiveness in the tourism industry.

Review of Waste Management in Indonesian Small Islands in the Last Five Years (2018-2023)

Indonesia is a maritime country composed of 16,771 islands consisting of large islands and small islands. One of the environmental problems that occur in small islands. Waste management is a shared focus because sources of water, soil and air pollution can come from waste. Waste management on small islands is very important because small islands have a much higher vulnerability than large islands.. This article aims to identify and analyze waste management in Indonesia's Small Islands and evaluate if its implementation has utilized the technology and concepts of the Industrial Revolution 4.0. Based on the findings of a review of 14 articles published from 2018-2023, with 15 islands as research objects, it was found that most of the small islands used as research objects had not managed their waste properly. The waste is eventually dumped into the sea. The unmanaged factor of this waste can be caused by the geographical conditions on the island which are bordered by the sea, the lack of waste management facilities, the limited land area on small islands and the low awareness and participation of the community in waste management. The rest, several islands have carried out the process of storage, processing, collection and destruction quite well. The waste is turned into handicrafts (bags and souvenirs), ecobricks, garden decorations and plant fertilizers for organic waste as well as the development of innovative waste into diesel fuel. Unfortunately, the intended application based on the Industrial Revolution 4.0 has not been reflected in waste management on these small islands. This is expected to be information and input for the government and managers as a model for other small islands in an effort to manage waste generation on the island's mainland and garbage contamination in the sea.

Conceptual and Applied Aspects of Water Retention Tests on Tailings Using Columns

The water retention capacity of porous materials is crucial in various geotechnical and environmental engineering applications such as slope stability analysis, landfill management, and mining operations. Filtered tailings stacks are considered an alternative to traditional tailings dams. Nevertheless, the mechanical behaviour and stability of the material under different water content conditions are of concern because these stacks can reach considerable heights. The water behaviour in these structures is poorly understood, particularly the effects of the water content on the stability and potential for liquefaction of the stacks. This study aims to investigate the water retention and flow characteristics of compacted iron ore tailings in high columns to better understand their hydromechanical behaviour. The research used 5 m high columns filled with iron ore tailings from the Quadrilátero Ferrífero region in Minas Gerais, Brazil. The columns were prepared in layers, compacted, and instrumented with moisture content sensors and suction sensors to monitor the water movement during various stages of saturation, drainage, infiltration, and evaporation. The sensors provided consistent data and revealed that the tailings exhibited high drainage capacity. The moisture content and suction profiles were effectively established over time and revealed the dynamic water retention behaviour. The comparison of the data with the theoretical soil water retention curve (SWRC) demonstrated a good correlation which indicates that there was no hysteresis in the material response. The study concludes that the column setup effectively captures the water retention and flow characteristics of compacted tailings and provides valuable insights for the hydromechanical analysis of filtered tailings stacks. These findings can significantly help improve numerical models, calibrate material parameters, and contribute to the safer and more efficient management of tailings storage facilities.

From data silos to seamless integration and coordination: a data-asset centric approach to smart hospital facility management

PurposeExisting hospital building operations involve numerous information technology applications and complex building systems; therefore, an intelligent facility management (FM) platform is required to ensure their continuous operation. To address the persistent issues of data silos, inefficient data interoperability, and workflow incoordination that have been identified in the current body of FM practice and literature, the present study develops a data-asset (DA) centric FM platform specifically designed for hospital buildings.Design/methodology/approachThis study proposes a semi-customized approach to develop the DA-centric FM platform for hospital buildings. To elucidate the precise function requirements of the hospital FM platform, focus group interviews are employed. By seamlessly integrating the as-built BIM model, IoT sensor data and FM workflow data, the BIM-based DA model with a data transfer mechanism is developed. The development of the FM platform with function modules in a case study is guided by a five-tier architecture and the coordination theory (CT). The case study provides an in-depth introduction to the applications of DA management, space management and maintenance management modules.FindingsThe capabilities of the developed DA-centric hospital FM platform are validated through the case application and user satisfaction survey, which assess data quality, automation level, operation efficiency, flexibility and functionality. For hospital FM activities, this DA-centric FM platform realizes data integration and seamless transformation, optimizes workflow coordination and enhances operation performance.Originality/valueThe initial scholarly contribution is the establishment of the BIM-based DA model, which serves as the data middle platform for continuous data integration, transmission and sharing within the FM platform. Subsequently, under the guidance of the CT, the business process of function modules is designed, improving the intra-module and inter-module workflow coordination. The developed DA-centric FM system along with its performance benchmarking application, assists facility managers and decision-makers in implementing smart operations for hospital buildings and achieving the management goals of safety, efficiency, energy savings and convenience.

Impact of Volleyball Course on College Students’ Tactical Skills in China

In 1910, the game of volleyball was introduced in China. Currently, the level of Chinese competitive volleyball is relatively high, and it has achieved good results in international tournaments so it is timely and necessary to investigate its teaching in universities and colleges. The effects of playing volleyball may influence the students’ safety, physical conditioning, use of facilities, team considerations, experience with the coach or instructor, and tactical ability. Much has been studied in the field of volleyball including its health effects on its players. However, there was a dearth of literature on the effects of volleyball courses on university students in China. Thus, the study looked into this area of investigation to propose a teaching development for volleyball courses in universities and colleges in China. Using descriptive comparative correlational research design, the findings revealed that the majority of the participants were male first-year college students pursuing engineering studies. The college students evaluated the impact of their tactical skills in playing volleyball. The factors of safety and instructor received the highest assessment while the management of equipment and facilities had the lowest assessment. There was a significant difference in the assessment of the management of equipment and facilities domain based on the respondents’ year levels, with a small effect size. On the other hand, no significant difference was found in safety, physical conditioning, team consideration, instructor, and overall experience of college students in playing volleyball. Comparing the groups, 1st and 2nd year students scored higher in management of equipment and facilities than those 3rd year students. Overall, the college students were assessed to have average tactical skills in playing volleyball. Specifically, offensive tactical skills scored higher than defensive tactical skills.

Managers of Aged Care Residential Services in Australia 2006-2021: Transformation reform

Objectives: This article provides analyses of the number and characteristics of managers of aged care residential services in relation to number of aged people, residents of aged care facilities and people employed in them. Design: The research design follows specifications provided by the authors for tabulations prepared by the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) from the censuses of population conducted by ABS in 2006 and 2021. Analyses undertaken by the authors show changes that have taken place in the number of managers of aged care residential facilities in relation to the number of aged people, residents of aged care facilities, and people employed in them. Further, the analyses examine changes in the demographic characteristics of managers, their working hours and income, over time. Findings: There was a substantial decline in the proportion of the growing number of people aged 70 years and over who lived in aged care residential services during the 15-year period. While there was a large increase in the number of employees and managers per resident, and a slight increase in the number of managers per employee. The proportion of female managers fell, and the average age of managers increased slightly. The proportion of managers at graduate level rose substantially. Although the average income of aged care residential services managers was similar to that in all industries in 2021, their increase was larger than in all industries during the 15-year period. Average hours worked remained similar over time. The proportion of Australia-born managers declined while that of managers born in Asia rose substantially, and the proportion of indigenous managers about doubled during the 15-year period. Implications: Relevance to those concerned with the evolving transformation of aged care in Australia and those interested with management training of the growing number of managers of aged care residential services.

Relocating a highly complex 5 million test per year hospital based laboratory - what you should know and what you should avoid

Abstract Introduction/Objective A highly complex hospital based laboratory performing 5 million test per year in New York City was commanded to relocate due to a clinical department need to expand. This presented a challenge regarding the obtention of a suitable new space within the existing facility, the architectural design to optimize the performance of both Anatomic and Clinical Pathology, the choice between acquirring brand new instrumentation versus relocation of the existing instruments. At the same time, we had to interact with hospital wide Facilities Management and Information Services/ Electronic Medical records. In addtion, for quality improvement and to alleviate the shortage of licensed technologist in our state, it was decided that a robotic line was to be implemented in the new facility. Methods/Case Report Several space options were assessed. Once the most suitable space was found a decision was made to move in two phases, Anatomic Pathology first, and subsequently Clinical Pathology. New work stations were purchased for Anatomic Pathology. New instruments were obtained for Chemistry, Immunology and Hematology. All instruments were validated.. Our laboratory information system had to be upgraded in order to support the robotic line, which is to be implemented after the Clinical Laboratory move. This will facilitate the expansion of in house provision of laboratory services to outpatient facilities / clinics expandin our outreach. The new space includes room to expand as well as abundant swing space. Our next phase includes the relocation of our Blood Bank and expansion of our Microbiology Services Results (if a Case Study enter NA) Due to delays in the obtention of the State Occupational permit the move was postponed several times. It was decided to move in two phases, once the permit was received. The Laboratory successfully moved in a two week period, and was fully operational overnight. Conclusion The Laboratory successfully moved in a two week period, and one week later we underwent a routine State inspection, in which the rigourous inspectos encountered very few deficiencies. The Laboratory is fully operational to the satisfaction of our clinical departmenst and preparing to the next phase including Blood bank and expanding our outreach program