Introduction
Traditional integrated plumbing systems (IPS) require extensive on-site work, involving joiners, plumbers, finishers, and IPS specialists coordinating their efforts. This complex process can take days to complete and introduces multiple points of failure, potentially delaying the entire project.
Darren Francis, part of Trovex’s Business Development team, explains why Hygipod IPS stands out in the healthcare sector and how it streamlines project delivery by simplifying installation.
“At its core, an IPS is simply a boxing unit that hides plumbing,” Darren explains. Traditional integrated plumbing systems are typically constructed on-site, requiring several trades to be involved. Joiners build the frame, finishers line and clad the unit, and plumbers install the pipework. This multi-trade coordination often falls on the main contractor, who must manage three or four suppliers just for this element alone. Such complexity not only increases the risk of delays but also complicates adherence to project specifications.
Hygipod IPS transforms this process by delivering a fully prefabricated, modular unit directly to the site. “It’s a plug-and-play solution,” says Darren. Each unit is bespoke and pre-engineered to meet the specific needs of the project, ensuring compatibility with the healthcare environment’s requirements. This modular approach eliminates the need for on-site assembly of integrated plumbing systems, making installation fast and efficient while maintaining a high-quality, aesthetically pleasing finish.
Contractors using Hygipod IPS consistently report significant time savings during installation. Darren notes, “We’ve seen installations completed in under half an hour. From a bare wall to a fully functioning wash basin, it’s as simple as sitting the unit on its plinth and fixing it back to the wall.” This rapid installation process leverages the benefits of pre-plumbed and tested healthcare IPS units, reducing on-site labour and streamlining project timelines.
The impact of this speed extends beyond individual units. When multiplied across dozens or even hundreds of units within hospitals or other clinical environments, the overall programme benefit becomes substantial. Faster installation means quicker project completion, allowing healthcare facilities to become operational sooner while adhering to strict hygiene and infection control standards.
One of the critical challenges in traditional IPS installation is the on-site cutting, drilling, and fitting required, which can generate dust, noise, and other hazards. These activities pose safety risks to workers and can compromise the cleanliness of clinical environments, where infection control is paramount.
Hygipod IPS addresses these concerns by utilising factory-manufactured integrated panel systems. All holes are pre-drilled, sanitaryware cut-outs are precision-made in the factory, and taps are pre-mounted and plumbed before delivery. This eliminates the need for on-site cutting and drilling, significantly reducing dust and noise. Consequently, the installation site remains cleaner and safer, enhancing hygiene and protecting users from exposure to bacteria and other contaminants. This approach aligns perfectly with the healthcare sector’s stringent requirements for cleanliness and infection control.
At first glance, easy to install healthcare IPS like Hygipod may appear more expensive than traditional systems. However, Darren emphasises that the true value lies in the overall cost savings throughout the project lifecycle. “We’re not always the cheapest option on paper,” he admits, “but when you account for the labour, time saved, and reduction in risk, the overall cost to the contractor is lower.”
“Ultimately, our goal is to take the complexity out of IPS,” Darren concludes. Hygipod IPS achieves this by delivering a solution that saves time, money, and stress, all while enhancing durability, cleanliness, and user satisfaction. For healthcare projects seeking easy to install healthcare IPS units, Hygipod represents a forward-thinking choice that aligns with the evolving demands of the healthcare sector.
Do you need more information on specifying IPS for healthcare? Contact us: