The Wakefield Hospital Redevelopment marks a significant leap forward in New Zealand’s healthcare infrastructure, delivering a state-of-the-art facility designed to enhance both patient care and operational efficiency. Intelligent Environments played a pivotal role in this transformation, providing an advanced lighting control system for hospitals, specifically tailored to meet the unique demands of the facility.
From the outset, the project demanded a solution that balanced flexibility, energy efficiency, and ease of use. Aurecon, the electrical engineering consultant, specified a Smart DALI lighting control system, and Intelligent Environments stepped up with a zencontrol DALI-2 solution, seamlessly implemented across all four floors. Working closely with Stones Electrical, led by Project Manager Mikhail Bredevelt, who managed the installation, and Ian Rose, the lighting controls engineer from Intelligent Environments, the team ensured that the system was not only functional but also optimised for the hospital’s demanding environment.
The result is a dynamic, intelligent lighting system that adapts to different hospital zones, ensuring comfort, safety, and efficiency. In staff areas, a combination of manual DALI switching and presence detection allows for intuitive control, while clinical spaces like radiology and scanning rooms are equipped with local DALI rotary dimming for precise adjustments. Corridors, often high-traffic areas, are managed through presence detectors with manual override capabilities, providing a balance between convenience and energy savings.
One of the standout features of the system is its ability to shift seamlessly between predefined lighting profiles. During clinical hours, the system ensures optimal brightness levels, while after hours, a more subdued lighting profile takes over. In corridors and the main lobby, 70% of the luminaires are turned off with a long delay, while the remaining 30% dim to night-time levels, creating a safe yet energy-conscious environment. Bedside luminaires, meanwhile, are equipped with local DALI push buttons or rotary dimmers, allowing patients and staff to tailor lighting to individual needs.
Intelligent Environments’ ability to provide a remotely-accessible system proved to be another key advantage. Shortly after commissioning, hospital staff requested minor adjustments to the circulation lighting schedules to better align with daily ward operations. These modifications were implemented remotely without the need for an on-site visit, demonstrating the adaptability and efficiency of the zencontrol system.
The Wakefield Hospital project was awarded through a competitive tender process, and Intelligent Environments’ zencontrol solution stood out as a cost-effective, high-performance choice. By delivering a robust and scalable system that met both the electrical engineers’ specifications and the client’s expectations, the company reaffirmed its position as a leader in lighting control solutions.
Healthcare remains a key focus for Intelligent Environments, with projects underway across New Zealand. The team is currently delivering lighting control solutions for major healthcare facilities, including upgrades and refurbishments for the Counties Manukau District Health Board, the new Mason Clinic facility, the Auckland Hospital upgrade and refurbishment, the New East Wing Building at Taranaki Base Hospital, and the Acute Mental Health Unit at Palmerston North Hospital.
These projects further solidify the company’s expertise in delivering cutting-edge solutions tailored to the unique demands of medical facilities.
The Wakefield Hospital Redevelopment is a testament to Intelligent Environments’ ability to integrate sophisticated lighting controls for hospitals. With a forward-thinking approach, a track record of excellence, and the ability to refine systems in real-time, the company continues to set the benchmark for innovation in healthcare lighting.
For more information on our work in lighting controls for hospitals and healthcare facilities, visit www.intelligentenvironments.co.nz or get in touch to discuss how we can support your next project.
