Clean Modules completes modular cleanroom project

Clean Modules, a specialist in modular prefabricated cleanrooms, has constructed a major new free-standing two-storey cleanroom building for the Pharmacy Department at Glan Clwyd Hospital in North Wales.

The MHRA-approved facility has three Grade B (ISO Class 5) aseptic suites, complete with isolators and laminar flow cabinets for cytotoxic and TPN preparation. To meet the latest clinical demands, the building also houses one of the first purpose-designed gene therapy cleanrooms, incorporating a single pass air system to avoid any risk of cross contamination. The cleanrooms are supported by Grade C (ISO Class 7) preparation areas, featuring specially constructed spray booths adjacent to the transfer hatches designed to minimise alcohol inhalation. The building, constructed from 14 prefabricated modules, contains a non sterile suite for dry powder and wet ointment preparation. Its two-storey design provides space for cleaning equipment, dry product storage and a walk in cold store, replacing the previous need for multiple fridges and providing more effective operation and stock handling. Other features include special access points for equipment removal and emergency access for the technicians. The facility highlights the flexibility of modular con-struction to cope with demands in the general areas outside the cleanrooms. Consideration has been given to access from the main hospital for both staff and patients using the gene therapy suite, and consequently a lift has been installed, together with a disabled toilet. Clive Sparkes, clinical director IM&T, said: "The flexibility of this design meant we were able to find a suitable space in which to create the exact facility we required. We have a superb new state-of-the-art unit, which is a comfortable working environment and which came in on budget."