Analysis of Measures to Reduce Defects in Hospital Buildings

Abstract

Buildings are major components of hospital assets and substantial resources are invested in their design, construction, and maintenance. Although investments in hospital maintenance are increasing, instances have been recorded of dissatisfaction among the hospital building users with respect to extent of defects in the buildings. Defects in the building have tremendous impacts on user’s performance and satisfaction and on the hospitals’ profit margins. This research investigated the remedial actions to reduce the defects in the hospital buildings. Through a survey interview involving 6 hospitals, the results revealed that educating building users, providing training to maintenance operatives, conducting preventive maintenance, and creating awareness on the importance of building are the measures remedies to prevent defects. Furthermore, it is important to blend design and construction with the functional value of the buildings. This research provides fresh information on the maintenance of hospital buildings. Even though the data are collected in Malaysia, the results can be applied to hospital buildings outside of Malaysia.