Thomas Embling Hospital is an award-winning high-security forensic mental health hospital located in Fairfield, Melbourne. The facility is operated by the Victorian Institute of Forensic Mental Health (Forensicare). This is a purpose-built facility with 116 secure beds that first opened in April 2000. Patients are usually admitted from the criminal justice system, either via prison transfer or from a court order for psychiatric treatment. A small group of patients are admitted each year from other public mental health services under the Mental Health Act 2014. The hospital provides acute and continuing care programs and includes a dedicated women’s unit.

Challenges

The project was undertaken to upgrade and improve the facility's vandal resistance and to comply with ligature resistance requirements. Galvin Engineering products were chosen for this project due to their robustness, ligature resistance and mimic a homely feel and its aesthetic appearance.

Solution

The result was a successful delivery of functional bathrooms that mimic a homely, robust bathroom and at the same time provides a safe environment for patients and staffs.

Key Data

Project start: March 2018 
Project Finish: October 2018
Project Location: 101 Yarra Bend Road, Fairfield VIC 3078
Architect: DesignInc, MAAP

Testimonial 

"The range of GalvinCare* tapware and drains, and Wallgate sanitary fixtures were specified and used throughout the Thomas Embling SPICU project. These products were selected and specified for the high quality and unique design suitable for the project.

As project manager for the Thomas Embling SPICU project, we are pleased to confirm that the Galvin range of Mental Health products had demonstrated effective installation and soundness under operation. In addition, the Galvin team had always offered a fast and efficient response to any queries that were raised over the project.

The Wallgate Solid Surface pans and basins provided a unique design solution which met all our specification requirements: ligature-resistant design, smooth lines for ease of cleaning and infection control, colour contrasting seat and non-institutional appearance."

We would have no hesitation in recommending the Galvin Mental Health ranges for future Mental Health facilities.- Campbell Fletcher, Project Manager from Axis Services Victoria

*Note: brand name updated to reflect name change (former Safe-Cell®)