THE electrical supply to Holsworthy Hospital was recently given an upgrade with new, cost effective rooftop solar panels being installed.

The project had to be carefully planned in order to successfully switch over to the new system without causing a loss in service at the community hospital.

In light of the work done to carry out these projects, the North Devon Healthcare NHS Trust was recently named ‘Client of the Year’ at the national construction design and management awards. The awards recognise outstanding practice in health and safety risk management for construction projects.

Iain Roy, director of facilities at the trust, said: “It is really important that we deliver the best possible clinical environment to support our patients, staff and visitors. The health and safety of both staff and the public during building projects is our top priority.

“This is a fantastic win for the facilities department and the Trust as a whole, and I am delighted that our commitment has been recognised.”

The facilities team were recognised for the work they did to raise awareness of changes to health and safety regulations, through interactive training sessions with contractors and suppliers, and giving out induction booklets to all those who worked on the site.

The team also ensured that the safe delivery of projects was seen as an important objective to all contractors, however but or small the project, highlighting that all jobs were carried out in environments where staff and patients are on site at all times.

The recent project involving Holsworthy’s community hospital was among one of the reasons the Northern Devon Healthcare NHS Trust was awarded the title of client of the year.

Rae Reynolds, operational capital manager for the trust, said: “Considering health and safety in planning projects such as the energy switch is absolutely vital.

“This is a collaborative award for the facilities team that shows not only are we doing it well, but we are setting a leading example to trusts across the country.”