When it comes to medical construction projects, every detail counts. However, integrating discussions about Division 11 healthcare equipment with experts and manufacturers early in the planning process is frequently overlooked, even though doing so can result in significant cost savings and a more seamless project execution.
Understanding Division 11 Healthcare Equipment
Before discussing the benefits of early planning and procurement, let’s take a moment to define Division 11 healthcare equipment and distinguish it from other Division 11 equipment. Like non-medical equipment, this category includes equipment that requires mounting or integration with mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems. However, Division 11 healthcare equipment, in many cases, must comply with more stringent regulatory standards that may need to be considered during project planning and may require that specialized utilities such as medical gas lines, very specific electrical setups, and emergency power sources be included in the final drawings. In hospitals and clinics, Division 11 equipment includes laboratory equipment such as fume hoods, refrigerators, freezers, and controlled environment cabinets, and medical equipment such as narcotics lockers, sterilization equipment, OR lighting, scrub sinks, some endoscopy cabinets, appliances, and ice machines. Mortuary and pathology equipment such as refrigerators, lifts, and sinks are also classified as Division 11.
Read the complete article on pages 34 & 35 of Medical Construction and Design's December Issue.