Radiology Ward Basement Investigation

Building Pathology & Feasibility Study of Radiology Ward Basement

Project Overview

An NHS Trust appointed OMNIA to undertake an assessment of the building pathology and a feasibility study of the basement areas of two buildings in the Radiology Ward of this Hospital. These areas had experienced long-standing water ingress issues affecting internal finishes and functionality. A number of attempts in the past have been made to remedy the situation but more so to ‘cover up’ the aesthetical aspect of the resulting damage. Whilst this may have addressed the aesthetical appearance in the short term to enable operations to continue with a degree of normality, the root cause of the damage has not been addressed successfully. Consequently, the degradation to the building fabric i.e. wall plaster, floor coverings, etc. as well as the internal decorative finishes have worsened. The purpose of the investigation was to establish causation, assess the extent of damage, and evaluate remediation options to restore safe, functional use of the space.

Project Objectives

Investigate and identify the causes of extensive damp and fabric degradation.
Evaluate the condition of drainage infrastructure beneath the affected buildings.
Undertake non-intrusive surveys and recommend intrusive investigations.
Propose practical, economic remediation options to restore the space.
Enable phased or full refurbishment while minimising disruption to clinical services.

Project Execution

OMNIA conducted visual inspections and digital damp readings to detect moisture at multiple wall heights. They reviewed historical site information, previous works, and collaborated with Trust estates and Facility Management teams. Drainage surveys were also incorporated into the review process.

Scope of Works Included:

Visual inspection of internal fabric and finishes.
Moisture readings at 300 mm, 1000 mm, and 2000 mm above floor level.
Review of historic drainage survey and CCTV footage.
Development of phased and full-closure refurbishment strategies.

Key Findings and Recommendations

Damp and Internal Damage:

High moisture levels confirmed in walls and floors.
Blistered paint, efflorescence, and damaged wall plaster.
Hygienic wall panels unintentionally made the damp spread higher up the walls.

Drainage Infrastructure:

Existing drainage showed extensive encrustation and partial blockages.
Some pipe runs were cracked or damaged, causing water to stagnate or backflow.
Cleaning and potential relining were advised.

Potential Causation:

Water ingress linked to failed below-ground drainage or compromised waterproofing/tanking.
Groundwater ingress also considered a plausible contributing factor.

Remedial Options:

Option 1: No Action (Not Recommended).
Option 2: Sectional Remediation (Phased works while maintaining some occupancy).
Option 3: Full Closure and Refurbishment (Recommended) – Allows faster, more effective treatment and cost efficiency.

Challenges & Solutions

Long-Standing Damage: Repeated surface-level repairs had failed to address root causes. OMNIA proposed a root-cause driven strategy.

Occupied Clinical Environment: OMNIA proposed a complete department shutdown and relocation during refurbishment to minimise disruption.

Complex Cause of Moisture: Combining drainage repair with intrusive tanking investigations was advised to fully understand water ingress pathways.

Client Outcome

The feasibility report empowered the Trust to make informed decisions based on engineering evidence. It prioritised root-cause rectification over cosmetic fixes and laid out a structured, cost-effective remediation roadmap. OMNIA also offered project management support for future design and construction phases.

OMNIA demonstrated its capability in diagnosing complex building envelope issues and guiding healthcare clients through pragmatic, compliance-driven solutions.