4 Modular Operating Theatre Wall Types: What’s the Difference?

In the previous discussion, we thoroughly discussed what a modular operating theatre is and what systems operate within it. One of its components is the wall panel or operating theatre wall. Yadav (2023), as cited in the previous article, stated that wall panels in an operating theatre are not merely room dividers. Wall panels in an operating theatre are able to make the room more precise, strong, and certainly in accordance with medical needs.

Based on this, it can be concluded that the selection of operating theatre wall panel materials is indeed an important step. The operating theatre is a high-risk area. Therefore, the selection of materials must later consider function, durability, and sterility needs.

Why Are Wall Panels Important in a Modular Operating Theatre?

International Health Facility Guidelines Part D: Infection Control clearly states that a modular operating theatre requires smooth wall surfaces, with minimal gaps, non-absorbent, and easy to clean. Not only that. As a Sterile Operating theatre, the wall surfaces must also be fire-resistant and impact-resistant.

This is done with the aim of:

1. supporting the cleaning and maintenance process consistently,
2. maintaining the quality of the operating theatre in the long term.
3. reducing the risk of damage,
4. keeping the room’s appearance professional,
5. helping maintain the sterility of the operating theatre,
6. helping integration with other systems such as HVAC, hermetic doors, and control panels.

4 Types of Walls in a Modular Operating Theatre

In the construction of a modular operating theatre, PT Mega Andalan Cleanroom Industri (PT MACI) provides several wall options that can be adjusted to the needs of hospital projects.

Why are they different?

In general, each type of wall has different characteristics. Some materials are superior in terms of appearance, some are strong in terms of durability, some are practical in installation, and some are flexible for certain design needs. Here are four types of operating theatre wall options available at PT MACI:

1. Tempered Glass Panel

As the name suggests, this wall has a panel made of tempered glass with a strong galvanized structure. Tempered glass panel is a wall option that is often associated with a clean, modern, and premium appearance. This material is suitable for hospitals that want to create an operating theatre with a brighter, more spacious, and high-end impression.

The advantages of using tempered glass panel for modular operating theatre walls include:

1. Easy to clean,
2. provides an elegant, modern, clean, and professional appearance,
3. creates the impression of a brighter and more spacious room,
4. helps maximize natural lighting,
5. durable for long-term use,
6. builds the image of an advanced medical facility with high standards.

2. Stainless Steel Panel

The next wall material option available at PT MACI is stainless steel panel. This panel, made from SUS 304 stainless steel, has strong, durable, and hygienic characteristics. This type of wall is suitable for medical areas that require high durability and resistance to routine cleaning processes.

The advantages of using stainless steel panel for a modular operating theatre are:

1. Has a strong and professional appearance,
2. has high durability,
3. resistant to corrosion and extreme temperatures,
4. impact-resistant and not easily peeled,
5. has antibacterial and hygienic properties,
6. easy to clean.

3. Sandwich Panel

Sandwich panel is a type of wall panel with a PIR (Polyisocyanurate) core that has an antibacterial coating. Panels with this material are often used for sterile room needs because the system is practical, modular, and efficient in installation.

The main advantages of sandwich panel material when used as a modular operating theatre wall are:

1. has a close joint system that helps keep the room hygienic and soundproof,
2. fire-resistant,
3. has a neat and functional appearance,
4. more efficient installation,
5. gap-free surface,
6. resistant to chemicals,
7. easy to clean.

4. Box Framed Panel

Box framed panel uses panels with a honeycomb board structure that is lightweight yet strong. This type of wall is suitable for operating theatre needs that require neat installation as well as easy integration with other elements. In addition, this material is also suitable for hospitals that require more specific wall planning according to the technical needs of the project.

In an operating theatre, walls do not stand alone. Walls need to support the installation of other systems, such as HVAC, electrical systems, control panels, hermetic doors, and medical equipment. Therefore, box framed panel can be an option for projects that require a more customized design.

In short, the advantages of box framed panel for a modular operating theatre are:

1. a more solid structure,
2. flexible in supporting system integration,
3. equipped with an antibacterial coating,
4. fire-resistant,
5. easy to clean,
6. uses an open joint system,
7. more flexible installation.

Why Build a Modular Operating Theatre with PT MACI?

1. Refers to Ministry of Health Regulation Number 40 of 2022

In the construction of MOT operating rooms, PT MACI takes into account the applicable technical provisions, including the Regulation of the Minister of Health of the Republic of Indonesia Number 40 of 2022 concerning Technical Requirements for Hospital Buildings, Infrastructure, and Medical Equipment.

This reference is important so that the operating theatre built is not only modern in appearance, but also designed to support the safety, function, and performance of healthcare facilities. Starting from the selection of wall panels, air conditioning systems, supporting installations, to the final project process, everything is prepared to meet the technical needs of hospitals.

2. Through Testing and Commissioning Process

PT MACI’s hospital MOT projects go through a testing and commissioning process before handover.

The goal is to ensure that every system works according to its planned function.The testing process includes:

• HVAC system,
• room pressure,
• electrical system,
• medical gas control,
• and other supporting components,

3. Provides an Integrated MOT Solution

PT MACI does not only provide one operating theatre component, but offers an integrated modular operating theatre solution. Starting from the room structure, wall panels, medical-grade vinyl flooring, hermetic doors, HVAC system, medical gas installation, PLC Smart System, medical equipment, to scrub station, everything is designed as one complete system.

This is important because an operating theatre cannot be seen as a collection of standalone components. Every element inside it is connected and affects one another. If handled by different vendors without proper system coordination, the risk of incompatibility between components may increase, from unsynchronized installations, suboptimal room performance, to a more complicated commissioning process.

Therefore, entrust the entire integration of your hospital’s modular operating theatre to PT MACI!

Deliver the Best Operating Theatre Walls for Your Hospital with PT MACI

Choosing walls for a modular operating theatre cannot be based on appearance alone. Each type of panel has different characteristics, functions, and advantages. Some materials are superior in terms of aesthetics, some are strong in terms of durability, some are efficient in installation, and some are more flexible for custom needs.

With the right wall selection, hospitals can have an operating theatre that is more hygienic, easy to maintain, modern, and suitable for operational needs. Wall materials also play a role in supporting cleanliness, maintenance, and the overall integration of the operating theatre system.

PT MACI, as a cleanroom contractor in Indonesia, can be a hospital partner in delivering a modular operating theatre with the right wall panel options, integrated solutions, and readiness to support the needs of modern healthcare facilities!

Consult your operating theatre needs with us today!