A BIM-Based Simulation Approach for Life-Cycle Quality Control in Post-Pandemic Hospitals

Abstract

The outbreak of COVID-19 has engendered extensive challenges for conventional hospital operations. To adapt to this problematic issue, a mixed-use hospital functioning system for normal and epidemic situations is proposed. However, the inherent complexity of a hospital embedded with a function of epidemic prevention and control renders a restrained construction process that may compromise quality. In this stance, we developed a BIM (building information modelling)-based simulation approach addressing life-cycle quality control in post-pandemic hospitals. An illustrative case study approach, which draws on the grey literature, was used to address the research question. BIM forward design was employed to integrate with such elements as functional streamline, emergency site, and ward conversion in the process of transformation from normal to epidemic-related operations. Computational fluid dynamics-based fluid simulation was conducted to obtain the most suitable air supply and exhaust solutions for negative pressure wards. BIM forward design method contributed to improving design efficiency and quality. The results of ventilation simulation and environmental analysis showed that the design scheme met all the functional requirements and technical specifications. Meanwhile, the best pipeline synthesis scheme was obtained, which reduced the rework and saved on construction time. The proposed method is beneficial to improve the efficiency of design information sharing and business collaboration. Implications generated from this study can be used as a significant reference for the future construction of various healthcare facilities.