CallisonRTKL worked with the facilities and infrastructure firm Patriot in a collaborative process on a design-build project for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. This project uses PODS to develop containers that can be repurposed into isolation units for alternative healthcare facilities treating coronavirus-positive patients.
Modifications to existing PODS containers were made to be used as a rapid response airborne infection isolation room (AIIR) and designed to enhance Healthcare Personnel (HCP) protection during care of infectious patients. Some of the design features implemented to limit HCP exposure:
- Isolation: Patients are isolated in an enclosed space, limiting to HCPs outside of the immediate patient care space.
- Transparency: The front wall of the container is designed with a full-glass door and sidelights to provide maximum patient visibility.
- Sanitation: Seamless flooring with cove base is installed to facilitate proper housekeeping and surface disinfection.
- Lighting: Multiple levels of lighting within the container haS been provided for patient comfort. Overbed lighting is provided for routine daytime settings with supplemental ceiling-mounted exam lighting and wall-mounted night lights.
- HVAC: HVAC systems are designed to provide horizontal air flow, introducing air from the front of the container and discharging air directly behind the patient at the rear of the container.
- Ease of Installation: Each container has individual electrical panels and condenser units mounted to the back of the container to simplify installation and commissioning of units within an alternate care site.
USACE APPROVED CONVERSION OF PODS CONTAINERS INTO SELF-CONTAINED ROOMS FOR COVID-19 PATIENTS
According to PODS, USACE developed, tested, and approved the conversion of PODS 12-foot and 16-foot containers into self-contained rooms with hospital beds that can be used for COVID-19 positive patients.
- Washable walls and floor cover per CDC guidelines
- Emergency back-up power
- Electrical and data outlets
- Exhaust fan with HEPA filtering
- Louver with gravity damper and balancing damper
- Modified isolation room entry door with direct line-of-sight visibility of patient
Related Stories
University Buildings | Jul 24, 2020
A hybrid learning approach could redefine higher education
Universities reassess current assets to determine growth strategies.
Coronavirus | Jul 20, 2020
Student housing amid the pandemic, infection control in buildings, and future airport design on "The Weekly"
Experts from Core Spaces, Bala Consulting Engineers, and Populous were interviewed in the July 23 streaming program from Horizon TV.
Coronavirus | Jul 17, 2020
Never waste a crisis
The coronavirus outbreak has provided numerous lessons for AEC firms.
Coronavirus | Jul 17, 2020
The Weekly show: What 40K workers have to say about WFH, and design in the digital age
This week on The Weekly, BD+C editors spoke with leaders from Cushman & Wakefield, HMC Architects, and HOK on three timely topics.
Coronavirus | Jul 14, 2020
Is there a way to test for Covid-19 without PPE?
We developed a unique design concept: a testing booth that allows healthcare workers to administer tests without using PPE or being exposed.
Coronavirus | Jul 13, 2020
4 technologies for improving building sanitization in a post-pandemic society
Changes in building design and operations can drastically improve public health and safety.
Coronavirus | Jul 10, 2020
HOK, Cushman & Wakefield, and HMC Architects hold sway on July 16 "The Weekly"
“The Weekly,” a new streaming program for the commercial design and construction industry, to feature experts from HOK, Cushman & Wakefield, and HMC Architects. Tune in July 16 for insight on social media and interior design, the future of the workplace, and healthcare design after COVID-19.
Coronavirus | Jul 10, 2020
The Weekly show: Carbon-fiber reinforced concrete buildings and back to campus amid COVID-19
The July 9 episode of BD+C's "The Weekly" is available for viewing on demand.
Coronavirus | Jul 1, 2020
Are hospitals prepared for the next pandemic?
Caught off guard by COVID-19, healthcare systems take stock of the capacity and preparedness.
Coronavirus | Jun 30, 2020
The great reset and our new work life
As many countries begin to return to the office, it’s a chance to ask ourselves: what do we truly value?
