Relocating mobile shelving inside NHS estate has a different rhythm to the commercial world. Patient flow, infection prevention and control (IPC), SBS framework rules and CQC documentation all shape the project. This is our complete pillar guide to NHS and healthcare archive shelving relocation.
Compliance essentials
Your contractor must be able to demonstrate PUWER 98 competence, current SEIRS registration, IPAF cards for any working-at-height kit and DBS clearance for every operative entering wards or records areas. We carry all four as standard.
Stage 1 — Pre-tender briefing
Most NHS trusts award via NHS Shared Business Services or a local procurement framework. We provide compliant tender packs including SEIRS, PUWER, DBS, insurance and recent NHS references.
Stage 2 — IPC-cleared site survey
Survey teams gown up to local IPC standards. We measure tracks, floor levels, lift dimensions and clinical-area access routes. CAD layouts are issued within five working days.
Stage 3 — Out-of-hours scheduling
Ward-adjacent and records-office work is scheduled out of hours by default — typically 18:00 Friday to 06:00 Monday — coordinated directly with matrons, estates and records managers. Our 48-hour weekend playbook sets out that timetable hour by hour.
Stage 4 — Infection control and dust suppression
Roller racking in healthcare often holds patient records or sterile supplies, and track lifting in long-standing archives releases significant fine dust. HEPA vacuums, sealed dust sheets and decontamination wipes are used throughout, and floor zones are wiped down before handover.
Stage 5 — Reinstallation & PUWER
Tracks re-laid to within ±1mm, carriages re-seated, brakes and anti-tip mechanisms tested. The PUWER inspection certificate is emailed to the named estates contact within five working days — see our PUWER guide for the full documentation requirement.
Stage 6 — Documentation pack
- RAMS file with named operatives
- DBS certificate copies
- Pre/post photographic close-out
- PUWER inspection certificate
- Waste-transfer notes
The full pack is retained on file by estates teams for CQC inspections and future PUWER cycles.