Rockingham Wing at Kettering General Hospital

The Kettering General Hospital RAAC (Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete) Fail Safe Project was a critical infrastructure initiative, addressing structural concerns associated with RAAC panels within the 32-bed Maple and Fetal Wards, as well as the connecting corridors to prevent potential structural failures. The refurbishment also saw the installation of all new services to the ward, while keeping a 24/7 facility running with minimal disruption to patients and staff.

This project involved long-term temporary propping, new water closet and shower configurations, light refurbishment to enhance patient safety, hospital functionality, and work refurbishment to create a welcoming and efficient environment for patients and staff.

The first stage of the works saw the removal of all the housed services from the ward, clearing the space for asbestos removal. During this process, we discovered hidden asbestos in the ward floor, leading us to segregate the live floor below, allowing for our service to continue and the live ward to remain functional. Once all asbestos had been removed, we installed timber joists to support existing steel frame, bearing the weight of the RAAC planks, which was followed by a cloaking of fireline.

Alongside the new cloaking, we enhanced the old fabric penetrations throughout the ward, bringing the works up to the required standard of the latest fire regulations. The refurbishment involved stripping out all existing mechanical, electrical, and public health systems and replacing them with modern, fully compliant installations aimed at improving efficiency and reliability. As part of the works, a new electrical distribution system was introduced to boost load capacity and provide better lighting. A dedicated ventilation system, complete with new ductwork and an air handling unit, was also installed, alongside air conditioning for the office areas. In addition, medical gas supplies were incorporated into new bedhead units, and both the fire alarm and security systems were upgraded to ensure full compliance with current HBN/HTM standards.

After the internal fit out was completed – entire new flooring and a suspended ceiling – installation of the new welfare services could begin. These included:

• Wash and basins
• Gases
• Trunking
• Nurse call system
• Fire alarm system

Set in a live environment, these challenging works have been delivered due to positive collaboration with the NHS Foundation Trust and Munro, and through many long days and weekend hours committed to getting the job done by all of the team.

Through our Social Value commitment, R G Carter donated 50 Christmas gifts, including soft books and ‘make your own bauble’ kits for children, and the staff received gift vouchers. The donation totalled approx. £500. The delivery to the hospital was handed over by Zoe West and the site team, alongside a sizeable donation to Kettering’s food bank.