Modern Building Services

10 MODERN BUILDING SERVICES FEBRUARY 2023 FEATURE VERTICAL FOCUS W ith healthcare buildings contributing 15% of the total NHS carbon footprint 1 , reducing emissions in this sector is essential if the health service is to reach its world-first Net Zero goal. The NHS has the ambition to be the first ever Net-Zero national health service and has formally adopted two targets, set as the earliest possible credible dates to achieve Net Zero emissions. The first, for the NHS Carbon Footprint (emissions under NHS direct control), is to achieve Net Zero by 2040, with an ambition for an interim 80% reduction by 2028-2032. The second is for the NHS Carbon Footprint Plus, (which includes its wider supply chain), which sets a target for Net Zero by 2045, with an ambition for an interim 80% reduction by 2036-2039. The high demand for hot water provision that is frequently associated with healthcare premises makes it a clear target for emissions reduction. But it’s one that comes with certain challenges for facilities and estates managers. Hygiene-critical environments have a number of specific requirements. Ensuring an adequate, reliable hot water supply is key to creating comfortable conditions for patients and staff. Associatedwith this is the need to avoid the risk of scalding and burns, particularly for the protection of vulnerable patients. Preventing the risk of bacterial build up (mostly related to the control of legionella bacteria in water systems) is of particular concern due to the ability of a large number of different microorganisms biotoxins and other contaminants to cultivate in water. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) advises that hot water should be stored at least at 60ºC and distributed so that it reaches 55ºC in healthcare premises to reduce the risk of legionella 2 . Temperature control will need to be provided at hot water outlets used by persons at risk of being scalded. Ongoing maintenance of the hot water system is therefore vital to ensure that all the above criteria are continuously met. The vast variety of buildings and heating systems within the NHS estate adds to the complexity of the challenge. In short, while there may be numerous options, not all will be suitable for each project. With this in mind, let’s explore some of the potential solutions to achieving more sustainable hot water generation in healthcare premises. Andy Green , Technical Director at Baxi Commercial Solutions, looks at the challenges and opportunities to drive down emissions associatedwith hot water generation for hospitals and healthcare premises while prioritising a safe and reliable supply. Safe, efficient hot water in healthcare