Leominster Community Hospital

Leominster Community Hospital provides medical care to those in the local community. IT also provides ongoing treatment and rehabilitation of patients discharged from the County Hospital in Hereford.

As part of a continuing update of NHS hospitals in the Wye Valley area, the lighting system for the community hospital needed to be improved. This was due to the previous light fittings being in place for 20 years.

Tamlite Lighting was the lighting manufacturer of choice to provide an LED lighting solution. Everything needed replacing, from kitchens and corridors to wards and the car park.

The previous fixtures had several problems, which led to the hospital seeking more modern energy saving lighting solutions. Martin Jones, Estates and Engineering Manager, and Paul Stephens, Community Estates Manager, carried out a site inspection. They agreed that the previous lighting system was inadequate. Paul commented “The whole site is undergoing refurbishment, for example we are making several aesthetic changes to the building, and in particular the previous lighting system did not suit the needs of the hospital.”

There were three primary requirements of the new Tamlite luminaires. They were reduced maintenance, energy efficiency, and infection control.

Healthcare benefits

On the wards, physiotherapy and clinic rooms, MODLED LG panels were installed. The design of these luminaires prevents ingress of dust and moisture. Sealed to reduce dust collection, they are easy to maintain and clean - minimising the risk of contamination.

The low glare I-Tech optic prevents intrusive light and creates a positive environment. This is particularly important on the wards. Patients need to feel comfortable in their beds to aid recovery, and hospital staff need to be able to concentrate when attending.

The corridors and reception areas were also supplied with MODLED LG fittings. They gave a comfortable feel to patients and staff as they move between rooms. Patients being transported on a hospital bed are not dazzled due to the low glare optics. This is also important for patients with dementia in order for them to make sense of their surroundings.

The emergency lighting at the hospital was also upgraded. As a result, it provided sufficient illumination for staff, patients and visitors to vacate the premises quickly and safely in the event of a mains power loss.

The TBX Tri-colour batten with easy switch technology. Ranging from cool white (5000K) and neutral white (4000K) to warm white (3000K), they were installed in the minor injuries rooms. These high output fittings allow staff to examine patients in a well lit environment. ASTRO recessed downlights were supplied in the assisted shower rooms, providing a bright yet comfortable room for staff to assist patients.

Exterior lighting

The car park benefited from EXPLORER A providing high output illumination that doesn’t dazzle drivers. Therefore it provides sufficient light to ensure patients and visitors feel safe as they enter and exit the premises.

Paul Stephens commented, “We are very happy with the lighting, in fact it is better than we initially expected”.

Lee Stockton, Environment and Information Manager at the Wye Valley Trust, commented, “This project is part of a wider effort to significantly reduce energy consumption. Positive figures from this project will support our efforts to obtain funding for future work.”

The switch to LED luminaires can lead to energy savings of 62% over fluorescent fittings.

Click to also see the Emergency application of this project.

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