The Royal Victoria Infirmary in Newcastle upon Tyne needed to replace 150 windows in their doctors' residence building. Due to the close proximity of the Accident and Emergency entrance, which placed restrictions on installation and delivery vehicles, accurate planning was critical. Laing O'Rourke was appointed the main contractor and we were entrusted with the installation of the high-performance windows.

The replacement programme was a success and our window design, incorporating a Georgian bar to emulate the original design, proved to be a winner with all concerned. Since undertaking these works, we have secured other projects of a similar nature. It's all down to our commitment and the assurance that we're able to give to clients with our proven track record.

We designed the windows and doors to match the existing style of the building. At the same time, we had to take wind loading into account as a vital factor, due to the exposed location and elevation of the hospital. Dual-toughened safety glass was installed throughout and a flat-putty line-glazing bead was used in order to comply with hygiene requirements. For ease of reach, the upper opening sashes were fitted with a high-level pole-operated system. And in order to comply with security requirements, the lower opening sashes were fitted with a key-locking independent permanent restrictor. In other words, we took care of everything.

The contract duration was from November 2010 to April 2011. Two installation teams and one supervisor were on-site during this period. A programme of works was prepared for the contractor in order to correspond with the erection and dismantling of the scaffolding. Particular consideration was given to the client, as it was necessary to decant patients while the works were being carried out. The operating theatre was also closed for a period of two weeks. The end result was that all works were carried out on time and to the satisfaction of both the contractor and the client.