FloodFree Protection for NSW HOSPITAL

FloodFree barrier systems were implemented as part of a staged flood mitigation strategy for a major multi-building healthcare precinct, delivering robust protection while maintaining everyday functionality and seamless architectural integration.

Healthcare facilities must remain operational during extreme weather events. Flooding presents a significant risk to patient safety, essential services, and critical infrastructure, particularly within large precincts that incorporate underground services, plant rooms, access corridors and public entry points.

Engineered Flood Protection Solution

This project focused on strengthening flood resilience across key access points and vulnerable openings. A combination of FloodFree barrier systems were utilised, each engineered to suit specific site constraints, operational requirements and anticipated flood levels.

The project incorporates multiple barrier types, selected for long-term durability, corrosion resistance and proven performance in demanding environments.

Concealed Flood Barriers

A series of FloodFree Concealed Flood Barriers were installed across major openings within the precinct. These barriers remain hidden below finished floor level during normal operation, ensuring no visual or functional impact on the hospital environment.

Key features include:

  • Barrier widths ranging from approximately 2.4 metres to over 7.7 metres
  • Barrier heights up to 1.5 metres
  • Designed flood protection levels up to 1.3 metres
  • Integrated pumping and drainage interfaces where required

These concealed solutions provide high-capacity flood protection for service corridors, plant access points, and large openings deploying only when required.

Passive Tilting Flood Barriers

To protect key external and transitional areas, Passive Tilting Flood Barriers were incorporated into the system. These barriers deploy automatically as water levels rise, requiring no power or manual intervention.

Across the precinct, passive tilting barriers were supplied in a range of sizes, including:

  • Barrier widths up to 8.1 metres
  • Barrier heights up to 1.6 metres
  • Flood protection levels reaching 1.55 metres

Non-slip and protective surface coatings were applied in areas with pedestrian or service traffic, ensuring safety and durability under daily use conditions.

Personal Access Flood Doors

Maintaining safe and convenient access for staff and authorised personnel is critical in healthcare environments. Multiple Personal Access Flood Doors were installed to provide:

  • Standard hospital-appropriate hardware, including electric strikes
  • Powder-coated finishes for durability and aesthetics
  • Door dimensions tailored to site-specific requirements

These doors provide flood protection levels of up to 1.4 metres while functioning as standard access doors during normal operations.

Integrated Alarms, Testing and Commissioning

Barrier systems across the precinct were supported by an integrated alarm and monitoring system, including:

  • Flood level sensors
  • Alarm panels
  • Audible and visual warning devices
  • Clear operational signage

All barriers underwent factory and on-site functional testing, ensuring each installation met defined performance requirements prior to handover.

Trusted Protection for Critical Infrastructure

FloodFree barrier systems provide healthcare facilities with:

  • High-capacity, engineered flood protection
  • Discreet integration into public and operational environments
  • Automatic and passive deployment options
  • Scalable solutions suitable for staged developments
  • Custom-designed for long-term durability

Where uninterrupted operation is essential, FloodFree delivers reliable flood protection, engineered for critical infrastructure and trusted where performance is critical.