St Richard’s Hospice provides specialist care for patients with complex needs, where creating a safe indoor environment is essential. As part of the design of a flagship new building, incorporating the latest energy reduction technologies such as natural ventilation, Manchester Simulation was commissioned to investigate the potential risks posed by Covid-19 and similar airborne viruses.

Using advanced computational methods, our team developed a numerical framework and introduced a new ventilation risk metric to assess infection spread with a high level of confidence. This pioneering study not only helped to ensure greater protection for hospice patients but also provided guidance that can be applied to the design of future healthcare buildings.

The outcomes will inform care providers, engineers, and architects, supporting the creation of safer healthcare environments as society continues to adapt to living with Covid-19 and future respiratory challenges.