For National Healthcare Estates and Facilities Day, Perry Notman has shared what it’s like to work in his role…

Working as a mechanical engineer in a hospital is both challenging and rewarding. It requires a unique blend of technical expertise, problem-solving skills, and the ability to stay calm under pressure. Here’s a glimpse into a typical day in my life, ensuring the hospital remains functional and safe for both patients and staff.

Morning Routine: Boiler Checks and Readings

The day often starts early, around 7 AM, with a thorough check of the boiler systems. These checks are critical as they ensure that the hospital’s heating and hot water systems are operating efficiently. I begin by examining the boiler pressure and temperature readings, noting any discrepancies from the norm. Ensuring the correct operation of the boilers is crucial, as any fault could disrupt the hospital’s operations significantly.

I document the readings and conduct a visual inspection for any signs of wear or potential issues. This proactive maintenance helps in identifying problems before they escalate. Regularly testing the safety valves and checking for leaks are also part of this routine.

Chemical Checks and Water Treatment

Following the boiler checks, I move on to the chemical checks and water treatment systems. Maintaining the right chemical balance in the water systems is essential to prevent corrosion and scale build-up, which can lead to costly repairs and downtime. I test water samples, adjust chemical dosing pumps, and ensure that all water treatment equipment is functioning correctly.

This part of the job requires a meticulous approach and a deep understanding of chemistry. It’s not just about keeping the equipment running; it’s about ensuring that the water quality meets the stringent standards required in a hospital environment.

Mid-Morning: Responding to Reactive Engineering Faults

No two days are alike, especially when dealing with emergency reactive engineering faults. Around mid-morning, I might receive a call about an Air Handling Unit (AHU) malfunctioning or a heating pump failure. These systems are vital for maintaining the hospital’s climate control and hot water supply.

Responding to these faults requires quick thinking and a methodical approach. First, I diagnose the problem, which can involve anything from reading fault codes to physically inspecting the equipment. Then, I execute a solution, whether it’s replacing a faulty component or adjusting system parameters.

Unblocking Toilets and Addressing Plumbing Issues

Not all tasks are high-tech. Sometimes, I find myself unblocking toilets or fixing minor plumbing issues. While these tasks may seem mundane, they are just as important. A blocked toilet can quickly become a health hazard in a hospital, so swift action is required.

These tasks require practical plumbing skills and a willingness to get hands dirty. It’s all part of the job, ensuring the hospital environment remains hygienic and comfortable for everyone.

Afternoon: Maintaining Complex Engineering Systems

The afternoon is often dedicated to more complex engineering tasks. This could involve scheduled maintenance on heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems or performing upgrades to the hospital’s power infrastructure. For example, integrating new energy-efficient systems to reduce operational costs and environmental impact.

These tasks are typically planned and involve coordination with other departments. Ensuring minimal disruption to hospital operations is paramount, so I often work closely with hospital administration to schedule maintenance during off-peak hours.

Late Afternoon: Maintaining Complex Engineering Systems

As the day winds down, I focus on documentation and reporting. Accurate record-keeping is essential for tracking the performance of all systems and planning future maintenance. I document the day’s activities, update maintenance logs, and compile reports on any issues resolved or identified.

This documentation is not just for internal use; it often forms the basis for compliance with health and safety regulations. It ensures that the hospital meets all regulatory requirements and helps in planning budget allocations for future upgrades and repairs.

Evening: On-Call Duty

Evenings can be unpredictable. As part of a rotating on-call schedule, I must be ready to respond to any urgent issues that arise outside of regular working hours. Whether it’s a sudden power outage or a critical system failure, the responsibility to keep the hospital running smoothly doesn’t end at 5 PM.

And finally..

A day in the life of a mechanical engineer in a hospital is a blend of routine checks, emergency repairs, and complex engineering projects. It requires a diverse skill set and the ability to adapt to ever-changing circumstances. Despite the challenges, the role is incredibly fulfilling, knowing that my work directly contributes to the well-being of patients and the smooth operation of the hospital.