VA Hospital, Animal Research Facility Relocation, St. Louis, Missouri

The Veterans Administration project goal was to completely renovate nearly an entire floor of laboratory space. The existing lab facilities were taken down to wall studs and ceiling joists and replaced with all new finishes and fixtures. All new utility systems were upgraded and installed. The facility was completely operational and ready for occupancy through phases that include:

• Demolition, removal and disposal of debris, lead and asbestos abatement including containment structures and decontamination area
• Upgrade of HVAC system
• New electrical and plumbing
• New walls, floors, ceilings, casework, sprinkler system, painting
• Installation of specialized dark room and laboratory equipment
• Report preparation

The project was completed inside an occupied portion of the hospital that required close attention to personnel exposure control both for the workers and hospital staff. Current best practices were used, including wetting the areas sealed and enclosed work areas and negative air pressure to ensure that the work area did not release any harmful materials. Once the project started, several issues came up and required field correction. The most challenging was the development of unidentified lead abatement issues. Close attention was given to working with the VA to reduce cost and schedule delay issues. The project was completed on schedule despite these issues.

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