Modular methods to revolutionise construction for the healthcare sector

By ahhb
Sunday, 14 June, 2015

Compared to typical ‘bricks and mortar’ construction, modular projects are being completed in a fraction of the time, essentially changing the way the industry plans and develops new healthcare infrastructure. Ausco Modular is a leader in the modular space with more than 50 years’ experience designing, constructing and installing modular facilities for a range of industries and says its operations in the healthcare industry are expanding rapidly and for good reason.

Ausco Modular Director – Strategy and Business Development Ben Knight, said modular methods had come a long way from typical demountable buildings most people recognised to more impressive, permanent structures.
“Technology advancement means we are now able to offer modular solutions that are equal to their permanent counterparts in terms of construction, design and lifespan, but delivered within much shorter time frames,” Mr Knight said.
“To put it into perspective, modular construction timelines are around 40 – 60% faster than in-situ projects, which is invaluable to healthcare providers who need to mobilise projects quickly, with minimal disruption to the existing site.
“Up to 80% of modular construction is completed off-site which automatically reduces the occurrence of typical construction disruptions like noise, dust, use of heavy machinery and large numbers of construction workers on site.”
Mr Knight said with 80% of work occurring in a controlled factory environment the result was not only a more consistent, quality product but a safer experience for both workers and people around the site.
“We understand that many of our healthcare customers need to continue operations in some capacity during the construction period, which is very challenging to do safely with traditional buildings methods,” he said.
“We are able to work closely with our customers to ensure they are receiving a tailored offering for their building design and the construction method so that the final product can be completely customised to the needs of the people who are using it.
“For example, a number of our aged care clients in Victoria and Queensland need to house elderly residents on-site while construction takes place to ensure they aren’t disorientated or disrupted.”
In addition, Mr Knight said customers had access to locally manufactured products which was a point of difference to some other suppliers. “We have a big community focus and branches in every state which are locally staffed and use local suppliers and contractors wherever possible,” he said.
“Because our buildings are manufactured locally, in many cases customers can safely visit our facilities to inspect the product which gives them insight into the process.”
Mr Knight said Ausco Modular currently had a number of active projects in NSW and the ACT and a range of new projects in the pipeline for QLD and Victoria.
“As these technologies continue to develop, healthcare providers are uncovering the benefits of modular and are embracing the quality and versatility it offers,” he said.
“Our access to local, national and global networks has allowed us to become leaders of the pack when it comes to providing first class construction solutions for the healthcare sector.
“We are able to give our customers more value through our partnership with the Algeco Scotsman group who are widely known as global leaders in the modular healthcare space.”
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