Overview: The National Forensic Mental Health Hospital, located at St. Ita’s Campus in Portrane, embarked on a significant expansion project to meet the growing demand for forensic mental health services. This expansion included the construction of a new 130-bed adult forensic hospital spread across 10 buildings within the campus. Recognizing the critical need for a comprehensive security infrastructure, Electro Automation was awarded the contract to supply and commission integrated security systems for Access Control, Intruder Alarm, Automation Systems, and multiple services integration over the entire site.

Project Details:

Client: National Forensic Mental Health Hospital, St. Ita’s Campus, Portrane.

Scope:

• Integrated security solution covering 10 buildings within the campus
• Projected build cost: €160 million
• Projected security cost: €3 million

Key Components:

1. Access Control: Installation and integration of 240+ access card readers across the site to regulate entry and exit points.
2. Intruder Alarm: Deployment of 850+ door contacts and associated sensors to detect unauthorised access attempts.
3. CCTV Surveillance: Implementation of a comprehensive CCTV network comprising over 700 cameras strategically placed to monitor key areas and ensure round-the-clock surveillance.
4. Intercom Systems: Installation of 150+ intercoms to facilitate communication between staff and visitors, enhancing overall security and operational efficiency.
5. Automatic Gates: Provision of 12 sets of automatic gates to control vehicular access and enhance perimeter security.
6. Fire Integration System: Integration of fire detection and alarm systems with the overall security infrastructure to ensure rapid response in case of emergencies.
7. Network infrastructure: supply and installation of a robust network cabling system for seamless connectivity and administration of security devices and systems.
8. Installation of key and asset management system: This includes over 600 keys and 450 assets.
9. Integration with staff alarm system.

Challenges:

• Complexity: Integrating diverse security systems across multiple buildings posed a significant technical challenge.
• Scale: The sheer scale of the project, with hundreds of security devices to be installed and integrated, required meticulous planning and execution.
• Regulatory Compliance: Adherence to strict regulatory standards and guidelines governing security measures in healthcare facilities added complexity to the project.

Solution: Electro Automation devised a comprehensive security solution tailored to the specific needs of the National Forensic Mental Health Hospital. Leveraging their expertise in integrated security systems, Electro designed a scalable and robust infrastructure capable of meeting the hospital’s present and future security requirements.

Implementation:

• Electro Automation’s team of skilled technicians meticulously installed and configured each security component, ensuring seamless integration and functionality.
• Rigorous testing and quality assurance measures were employed to validate the performance and reliability of the entire security ecosystem.
• Close collaboration with the client and other stakeholders facilitated smooth project execution and timely delivery.

Results:

• Enhanced Security: The implementation of Electro Automation’s integrated security solution significantly enhanced the overall security posture of the National Forensic Mental Health Hospital, providing comprehensive coverage and real-time monitoring capabilities.
• Operational Efficiency: Streamlined access control and surveillance systems improved operational efficiency, enabling staff to better manage security incidents and respond promptly to emergencies.
• Compliance: The deployed security infrastructure ensured compliance with relevant regulatory standards and guidelines, providing peace of mind to hospital management and stakeholders.

Electro Automation’s successful completion of the integrated security project for the National Forensic Mental Health Hospital underscores its expertise in designing and deploying tailored solutions for complex security challenges. By delivering a robust and scalable security infrastructure, Electro has helped ensure the safety and security of patients, staff, and visitors at one of Ireland’s leading mental healthcare facilities.