When Des Moines Orthopaedic Surgeons (DMOS) began assembling the construction team for its new, dedicated satellite clinic in Ankeny, Baker Group was among the first to be selected. “We have a long history working on DMOS’s West Des Moines facility. They know we’re going to perform for them,” says Brad Matt, Baker Group Project Manager.

Baker Group is providing heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC), plumbing, building automation, and security and fire alarm systems for the one-story clinic, which includes 16 exam rooms, four cast rooms, four X-ray rooms, physical therapy, waiting room, offices and urgent injury clinic.

The HVAC system consists of a 40-ton, 14,000 CFM rooftop unit, 18 Variable Air Volume (VAV) units with electric reheat, five exhaust/transfer fans and 10 unit heaters. Plumbing is being provided for 10 bathrooms plus 23 sinks in exam rooms, cast rooms, breakroom and coffee bar; an electric water cooler; four wall hydrants; one roof hydrant; and six roof/overflow drains.

Communication & Collaboration Create Coordinated Work Flow

With a job site that leaves little extra space for workers, equipment and materials, this project required more advance planning and coordination among contractors. For example, after Baker Group completed the underground storm work in July 2016, the entire DMOS job site was dedicated to the steel contractor. When the steel structure is complete, Baker Group and other work teams will return.

“We continue to have scheduling meetings where all contractors get in a room and coordinate all tasks. Our foremen talk each day,” Matt says.

Healthcare Facilities Have Unique & Complex Needs

According to Matt, one advantage that Baker Group brings to the DMOS project is its extensive experience with hospitals and clinics. Another is its turnkey service, including in-house new construction, design, sheet metal, piping services and automation.

Above all, he says, “It’s the relationship we’ve built with them. We have a service agreement with DMOS and are familiar with their existing facility. We bring consistency and reliability, and we deliver on our promises.”