A $250,000 upgrade to the heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system at the Sindi Ahluwalia Hawkins Centre for the Southern Interior will ensure patients who often spend hours receiving cancer treatment do so in maximum comfort.

A complete overhaul of the HVAC system is set to take place, with both the operating control system and individual units set to be renewed.

The control system, which regulates air volumes, temperatures and air exchanges, will be replaced. Mechanical parts - such as the building automation system panels, supply pumps, steam pressure reducing stations, air handling units and heat exchangers - will also be upgraded. Not only are these improvements expected to make the indoor environment more comfortable for patients, it will also result in a reduction in the centre's overall energy consumption.

The HVAC upgrades are in addition to a lighting upgrade worth $150,000. This project will revamp the Okanagan Centre's lighting control system, allowing for customized lighting in patient areas and ensure that clinicians and nursing staff can control the intensity of light when checking in with patients.

The projects will be put up for tender in October and are expected to be complete in a phased approach by June 2013.

Quotes:

Norm Letnick, MLA Kelowna-Lake Country on behalf of Health Minister Dr. Margaret MacDiarmid -

"Patients and their families often spend many hours at the BC Cancer Agency receiving treatment and consultation. The upgrades we are making will allow them to do so in a facility that is comfortable and with the patient top-of-mind."

Frank Levenheck, director facilities maintenance, BC Cancer Agency -

"Patients receiving cancer treatment are navigating a very difficult time in their lives and often, subtle nuances like warmth and lighting will provide a measure of comfort."

"I believe the upgrades we are implementing will improve the patient experience, while also allowing us the added advantage of operating in an environmentally sustainable way."

Media Contacts:

Ryan Jabs
Media Relations Manager
Ministry of Health
250 952-1887 (media line)

Patrick Blennerhassett
Provincial Health Services Authority
604 675-7416
604 871-5699 (media page)