Proper commissioning of building systems is a key component of project delivery, helping to assure the correct installation and operation of the systems that underpin the safe, effective and efficient operation of the building and its orderly transition from construction to operation

Monash University’s Department of Epidemiology & Preventive Medicine specialises in applied clinical and public health research bringing its core skills of epidemiology, biostatistics and data management to research programs aimed at reducing suffering, preventing illness and improving quality of life.

The Department is located over two buildings within the Alfred Medical Research & Education Precinct in Prahran, Victoria.

New Physical Containment (PC2) laboratories are under construction to support the University’s Central Clinical School, and to realise a significant research opportunity.

Builder Icon Co is undertaking the $7 million fit-out of one of the new PC2 laboratories, with A.G. Coombs Projects delivering the HVAC and mechanical services. The laboratory will provide a flexible, modern teaching space, along with supporting functions including fume cupboards, freezer space, and a new reverse osmosis purified water system. Physical Containment laboratories rely upon sophisticated air flow management systems to maintain pressure hierarchies. The complex nature of commissioning such a facility demanded the expert input from an experienced commissioning specialist.

From previous experience, Icon Co understood the benefits of A.G. Coombs’ integrated approach to commissioning. On complex projects, A.G. Coombs Advisory provides expert resources to closely manage the commissioning process across multiple trades and systems to assure that integrated system performance can be validated and delivered on time.

Involved from the beginning of the PC2 laboratory project’s construction phase, A.G. Coombs Advisory, as appointed Independent Commissioning Agent, undertook a detailed design review for commissionability, addressing not only the building systems but also the construction processes and details required to achieve airtightness. A comprehensive commissioning plan was formulated with the clear objective of meeting the University’s exacting specification for the facility and the stringent government certification requirements.

A.G. Coombs Advisory’s leading commissioning approach is well supported by their experienced Independent Commissioning Agent experts … We knew when the University received Advisory’s final commissioning report that the works were not just complete, but also correct.Emily Mudge, Senior Project Manager, Icon Co

A large amount of detailed information was compiled and used during construction and commissioning to support the process, and ultimately provide proof of correct systems operation. Cloud computing functionality was used extensively to facilitate an innovative online commissioning program. Technicians constantly updated secure online project spreadsheets on-site, using hand-held devices. This information was then instantly available to all project team members who had access to the shared system. This initiative helped save valuable time in what was a compressed delivery program.

Close liaison throughout the construction process between Advisory and the Certifier helped to assure the outcome, as did careful and close witness testing of all systems to ensure commissioning had been undertaken properly and in line with the University and Certifier’s requirements.

Emily Mudge, Senior Project Manager at Icon Co said “A.G. Coombs Advisory’s leading commissioning approach is well supported by their experienced Independent Commissioning Agent experts. They have mastered the challenges of working in a live, critical environment, and their initiatives – such as the use of online commissioning tools – enabled close collaboration between all stakeholders, which helped with meeting our tight timeframes. We knew when the University received Advisory’s final commissioning report that the works were not just complete, but also correct.”