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Creating Acoustic Excellence at the National Cancer Centre, Singapore

Creating Acoustic Excellence at the National Cancer Centre, Singapore

The Role of Acoustic Design in Healthcare Facilities

Acoustic design plays a crucial role in healthcare environments, where clear communication and a calming atmosphere are essential. The National Cancer Centre, Singapore (NCCS), recognizes the importance of this and has incorporated innovative acoustic solutions in their meeting rooms to enhance patient care, research discussions, and overall operational efficiency. This article delves into the design and construction of NCCS’s meeting rooms, highlighting the installation of Timberix™ Grooved panels and their impact on acoustics and social responsibility.

Collaboration and Project Goals

At the heart of this project is the NCCS, a national and regional center committed to excellence in cancer research, education, and clinical services. Located in Singapore, the center offers a comprehensive range of clinical services, including public cancer information campaigns aimed at prevention and treatment. The meeting room project brought together various stakeholders, including MOH Holdings Pte. Ltd., CIAP Architects, ARUP Singapore, and Lincontracte & Associates Pte. Ltd., to create an optimal acoustic environment conducive to effective communication and collaboration.

Innovative Use of Timberix™ Grooved Panels

Design Features of Timberix™ Panels

To achieve the desired acoustic quality, Timberix™ Grooved panels with custom grooves 28/3/13/3/28 were installed on the walls of the boardroom. These panels are designed to control sound reflections and echoes, ensuring the room achieves the required reverberation time for clear, articulated conversation².

Impact on Speech Intelligibility

By carefully selecting materials and configuring the grooves, the design team created a space that enhances speech intelligibility, a critical aspect in a healthcare setting where clear communication can directly impact patient outcomes².

Social Responsibility and Sustainability of Acoustic Panels

Eco-Friendly Material Choice

In addition to their functional benefits, the Timberix™ Grooved panels contribute to NCCS’s commitment to social responsibility and sustainability. These panels are made from eco-friendly polyester materials, which are both recyclable and non-toxic. This aligns with NCCS’s mission to promote sustainable practices within its facilities³.

Benefits of Using Sustainable Panels

Using polyester acoustic panels demonstrates a forward-thinking approach to environmental stewardship, reducing the facility’s carbon footprint and promoting healthier indoor air quality for patients and staff alike³. The panels also adhere to international standards for environmental and health safety, ensuring they are free from harmful chemicals and emissions, making them an excellent choice for a healthcare setting⁴.

Collaborative Efforts for Enhanced Patient Care

Roles of Key Contractors and Consultants

The success of this project can be attributed to the collaborative efforts of the various contractors and consultants involved. CIAP Architects led the architectural design, while ARUP Singapore provided consultancy services to ensure the project met the highest standards of acoustic performance².

Implementation and Installation

Lincontracte & Associates Pte. Ltd. acted as the main contractor, overseeing the installation of the acoustic panels. Aural-Aid Pte. Ltd., the acoustic contractor, played a vital role in achieving the desired acoustic results by carefully implementing the Timberix™ Grooved panels’ design specifications.

Long-Term Impact on Healthcare Environments

Transforming Healthcare Spaces Through Acoustics

The installation of Timberix™ Grooved panels at the NCCS’s meeting room showcases how thoughtful acoustic design can transform healthcare environments. By reducing noise levels and enhancing speech clarity, these panels help create a more comfortable and productive space for medical professionals to discuss patient care, research findings, and treatment strategies².

Setting a Precedent for Sustainable Practices

Furthermore, the use of sustainable materials demonstrates NCCS’s commitment to environmental responsibility, setting a precedent for other healthcare facilities to follow⁴.

References

  1. National Cancer Centre Singapore. (2024). National Cancer Centre Singapore: Excellence in Cancer Research and Treatment. Retrieved from National Cancer Centre Singapore

  2. ARUP. (2024). Healthcare Acoustics: Design Principles for Hospitals. ARUP Singapore. Retrieved from Healthcare Acoustics

  3. Timberix™. (2024). Product Specifications: Timberix™ Grooved Panels. Retrieved from Timberix™

  4. World Green Building Council. (2023). Sustainable Building Materials in Healthcare. Retrieved from World Green Building Council

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