Help Shape Research on OT HVAC Practices; We Want Your Input

Hospitals never stop. They provide continuous care, including emergency surgery and intensive care, which places enormous demands on HVAC systems. These systems are essential for maintaining safe, sterile environments, but they also drive significant financial costs and greenhouse gas emissions.

Operating theatres (OTs) are a prime example: while many remain unused after hours, they still operate with air exchange rates up to four times higher than other hospital rooms—along with the heating and cooling needed to condition this air.

The Setback Research Project, led by the Royal Melbourne Hospital in partnership with the University of Melbourne, is investigating how hospitals can safely scale back HVAC systems in unused OTs outside of operational hours.

As part of this project, we are surveying hospital engineers and key decision-makers to better understand current HVAC practices and perspectives across Australia.

We would greatly value your input.

Your responses will help inform national research into sustainable hospital operations. All data will be de-identified before being included in the project.

Survey purpose:

• To gain a clearer understanding of current OT HVAC practices

• To identify whether any hospitals are already implementing setbacks

If you’re an IHEA member or partner, we’d love to hear from you. Please take a few minutes to complete the survey via the link below:

Complete the Survey Here

Thank you for helping us support safer, more sustainable hospital environments.