New ambulatory care centre

Group Eight was responsible for all structural, mechanical and electrical engineering services for the first free-standing ambulatory care centre in Ontario. The work involved design, specifications, contract administration and site review.

As an integral part of the health care system in Hamilton, the 85,000 ft², ambulatory centre provides: 24-hour Emergency Department, Laboratory, Pharmacy, Radiology, Physiotherapy, Occupational and Speech Therapy, and Day Surgery for outpatients. The facility also provides a Geriatric Day Hospital, Diabetic and Nutritional counseling, as well as Nursing and Pastoral counseling.

Due to varying underground soil conditions, the building foundation is a combination of concrete caissons and concrete spread footings. The 2-storey, reinforced concrete structure was designed for post-disaster survival. Anticipated growth can be accommodated via third floor expansion.

An energy management system provides energy efficiencies and remote monitoring. The mechanical plant is comprised of two - 100 HP hot water heating boilers, a small, 30 HP steam boiler and a 400-Ton chiller plant. During a power emergency, the stand-by generator will power the building and one of the two chillers.