Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells NHS Trust
In-duct UV-C air sanitisation upgrade for Rapid Access Point ward
In 2021, Maidstone Hospital's Rapid Access Point (RAPS) ward underwent a comprehensive UV-C air sanitisation upgrade to address ambulance queuing, reduce infection risk, protect staff and patients, while simultaneously reducing energy usage and carbon emissions. The installation of in-duct UV-C technology achieved an 80% reduction in airborne pathogens, demonstrating the effectiveness of integrating UV-C into existing HVAC systems.
The Challenge
The Rapid Access Point ward faced critical operational challenges that required immediate attention. Ambulance queuing had become a serious issue, with some hospitals experiencing 25+ ambulances waiting outside. The ward needed to:
- Stop ambulance queuing and improve patient flow
- Reduce infection risk in a high-traffic emergency environment
- Protect frontline healthcare staff from airborne pathogens
- Safeguard vulnerable patients in emergency care
- Reduce energy usage and carbon emissions
The Solution
MidthermUV designed and installed an in-duct UV-C air sanitisation system integrated into the existing HVAC infrastructure. The solution provided heating, cooling, fresh air, and critically, 'clean' air through continuous UV-C treatment.
A 1,800 m³/h UV-C duct unit was installed in the return duct above ceiling tiles, capable of delivering a 4-log reduction to Influenza A viruses. The system meets and exceeds NHS specification HTM 03-01 for ventilation in healthcare premises.
The installation included local alarm indication and an hours-run meter for monitoring and maintenance scheduling, ensuring reliable continuous operation in this critical care environment.
Rigorous Testing Methodology
The effectiveness of the UV-C installation was validated through comprehensive air sampling and UKAS laboratory analysis, following a structured three-phase testing protocol:
Baseline Testing (No UV-C)
Initial air tests conducted without UV-C to establish baseline pathogen levels in the ward environment.
Mobile Unit Testing
Air tests carried out with mobile UV-C units to assess immediate effectiveness and validate the technology approach.
Final In-Duct System Testing
Comprehensive testing of the permanent in-duct UV-C installation to verify sustained pathogen reduction performance.
Key Result
Independent UKAS laboratory analysis confirmed an 80% reduction in airborne pathogens following the installation of the in-duct UV-C air sanitisation system, significantly improving air quality and patient safety in the Rapid Access Point ward.
Comprehensive Benefits
Reduced Airborne Pathogens
80% reduction in airborne pathogens creates a safer environment for patients and staff in this critical emergency care setting.
Lower Healthcare-Associated Infections
Reduced HCAI rates through improved indoor air quality and better "ventilation effects" from UV-C treatment.
Carbon Emission Reduction
Reduced tCO₂e emissions help meet Net Zero targets while maintaining superior air quality standards.
Improved Hospital Productivity
Reduced staff absenteeism, shorter waiting lists, and improved patient service through better infection control.
Cost-Effective Upgrade
Low costs to upgrade existing HVAC systems with quick paybacks. Potential £2bn achievable savings across healthcare sector.
Healthier Staff
Frontline healthcare workers benefit from cleaner air, reducing occupational exposure to airborne pathogens.
Technical Specifications
System Capacity
- • Air flow rate: 1,800 m³/h
- • Installation: In-duct (return air)
- • Location: Above ceiling tiles
- • Efficacy: 4-log reduction (Influenza A)
Compliance & Features
- • Meets NHS HTM 03-01 specification
- • Local alarm indication
- • Hours-run meter for maintenance
- • Integrates with existing HVAC
Installation Photos
Authentic photos from the Maidstone Hospital RAPS ward UV-C installation, showing the in-duct units integrated into the existing HVAC system above ceiling tiles.
Ceiling Void Installation
In-duct UV-C unit installed above ceiling tiles in the return air duct, showing integration with existing HVAC ductwork and insulation.
Monitoring & Safety Systems
Local alarm indication panel and hours-run meter for maintenance scheduling, integrated with hospital fire detection systems.
RAPS Ward Environment
The Rapid Access Point ward where the UV-C system provides continuous air sanitisation for emergency patients and frontline healthcare staff.
In-Duct Unit Design
Professional render showing the dual-chamber design with UV-C lamps that treats air as it passes through the HVAC system.
Products Featured in This Study
MT250 Wall Mount
Wall-mounted UV-C air purification unit used in the first stage of the project.
Capacity
250 m³/hr
Installation
Wall Mount
Coverage
Up to 40 m²
Sound Level
40-54 dB
In-Duct UV-C Unit
HVAC-integrated UV-C air sanitisation for large facilities. Winner of H&V Awards 2022 Product of the Year.
Capacity
1,800 m³/hr
Installation
HVAC Duct
Coverage
300 m²
Award
H&V 2022