Situation:
BOND was hired to provide construction services for a 1,500 SF renovation that facilitated the replacement of Lahey Medical Center, Peabody’s existing linear accelerator (LINAC). The project’s purpose was to create a vault space that would accommodate a new Varian LINAC incorporating the latest in Brainlab cancer treatment technology. This technology enhances laser targeting for radiation oncology from recessed floor boxes, ultimately increasing the level of accuracy and locating precise treatment areas. BOND worked closely with the design team at DiGiorgio to incorporate proper cooling and ventilation systems and finishes into the vault.
Challenges:
- Project completed within an active Cancer Center
- Isolation of LINAC suite from sensitive, adjacent clinical spaces
- Identification of proper scheduling and sequencing for delivery and vault construction
- Maintaining operations of an abutting CT scan that shares a control room with the LINAC
Solutions:
- Development of strict infection control procedures to ensure patient safety during demolition and renovation
- Utilization of negative air treatments, dust containment, and anterooms to separate job site from public spaces and minimize disruption to clinical spaces
- Construction of a slab-on-grade, concrete vault on the ground floor to house the LINAC and maximize radiation protection
- Installation of five-foot thick walls and seven-foot thick roof slabs to isolated radiation from the rest of the facility
- Close coordination with both Varian and Brainlab to guarantee proper sequencing for installation
- Collaboration with Lahey to sequence project and keep control room online at all times, eliminating the risk of disrupting the CT scan operations
Results:
- Delivery of a calming, spa-like radiation oncology space that enhances Lahey patients’ overall comfort while delivering the most advanced cancer treatment available
- Project completed with zero disruption and maximum safety for adjacent patients and building users
