Wimpole Street Diagnostic Centre, London- Case Study

Wimpole Street Diagnostic Centre, London- Case Study

This case study takes you through the journey of developing a next-generation CT scanning room for Apollo Building Services' project on behalf of Siemens Healthineers at the Wimpole Street Diagnostic Centre, located in the heart of London. This project involved the manufacture and installation of custom-crafted lead-lined laminate Raybloc® Doorsets, and the world’s first anxiety-reducing Sense-X® Internal Windows. Join us as we explore the complexities of this transformative collaboration and how Raybloc’s dedication to excellence is redefining radiation shielding and architectural ingenuity.

Specifications and Requirements -

• The project had highly specific requirements, particularly concerning measurements. The windows needed to be larger and wider to enhance the radiographer’s view and allow additional natural light into the room. The client also required flush-mounted warning lights on the door to alert those outside about the presence of radiation when a procedure was in progress.
• To ensure durability and visual appeal, lead-lined doorsets with a laminate finish were specified. Additionally, a specialist double Sense-X® Internal Window was designed to optimise lighting while maintaining stringent safety standards. The solutions had to seamlessly integrate into the facility’s architecture, striking a balance between essential radiation protection and the aesthetics of a modern medical environment.

Challenges Faced -

• One of the major challenges was the development of a specialist window comprising two Sense-X® Windows fused together. These needed to be manufactured to precise dimensions with clearly defined viewable areas, as LCD switchable film was to be retrofitted later by the client. To ensure accuracy, Raybloc provided detailed drawings of the window along with lead detail specifications for the Radiation Protection Advisor (RPA).
• Additionally, the custom window was required on a very tight deadline during the holiday period. Despite the Christmas break, Raybloc successfully delivered the window on December 27th, outside of normal working hours, to align with Apollo’s project schedule.

Solutions Provided -

The project was completed in two phases:

Phase 1:

• • Two laminated single Raybloc® Doorsets with flush-mounted warning lights.
  • One Code 6, 2.65mm Pb Raybloc® Internal Window—originally specified as a standard primer-painted window but later upgraded to a PVC-encapsulated Sense-X® Internal Window.
  • Code 5, 2.24mm Pb and Code 6, 2.65mm Pb lead-lined plywood Raybloc® Panels.

Phase 2:

• • One PVC-encapsulated Sense-X® Internal Window with a central transom.
• Installation of Customised Radiation Protection Solutions
• Raybloc’s collaboration with Wimpole Diagnostic Centre marked a significant milestone in the installation of tailored radiation protection solutions. The process required meticulous integration of various components, including lead-lined laminate doorsets and next-generation mood-enhancing windows. Apollo Building Services’ expertise ensured that these solutions were seamlessly incorporated into the facility’s infrastructure, reinforcing both functionality and safety. 

Conclusion -

The successful completion of the Wimpole Street Diagnostic Centre project underscores Raybloc’s dedication to delivering cutting-edge radiation protection solutions whilst enhancing aesthetics and functionality. By meticulously crafting and integrating bespoke lead-lined Raybloc® Doorsets and Sense-X® Internal Windows, we have exceeded the client’s expectations. Despite tight deadlines and complex specifications, our team’s expertise and commitment to excellence ensured seamless execution.

This project highlights Raybloc’s ability to adapt to unique requirements, work under challenging conditions, and provide industry-leading solutions that enhance safety, efficiency, and design in medical environments. As we continue to push the boundaries of innovation, Raybloc remains a trusted partner in advancing radiation shielding technology for healthcare facilities worldwide.