The James Cook University Hospital

Overview

Azar was appointed to deliver passive fire protection and joinery works at The James Cook University Hospital, a major acute and regional trauma centre in Middlesbrough. Working inside a fully operational hospital, we upgraded fire-rated doorsets and compartmentation while wards and clinical areas stayed open and safe throughout.

The challenge

Operating within a live hospital presents unique demands. We had to maintain strict fire safety compliance while working around patients, staff and critical care areas, minimise noise, dust and disruption, coordinate with multiple trades on a tight programme, and meet the durability and hygiene standards required in a healthcare setting.

What we did

• Supplied and installed 54 laminated fire-rated doorsets set within high-quality ash frames, selected for certified fire resistance, durability in high-traffic corridors, ease of maintenance and a clean, professional finish aligned with healthcare design standards.
• Installed fire-rated glazed screens to bring in natural light and support wayfinding, while maintaining compartmentation and fire integrity.
• Delivered bespoke joinery, including a custom-built media wall and wall panelling, manufactured and installed to match the project's design intent.
• Worked in phased sections and coordinated closely with site management to maintain safe working, hit programme deadlines and comply with healthcare infection control protocols.

The outcome

The completed installation gives James Cook enhanced passive fire protection, with durable, compliant fire-rated doors and glazed systems, and improved aesthetics through bespoke joinery, all built to perform over the long term in a demanding healthcare environment. The project shows our ability to deliver technically compliant passive fire protection inside complex, live healthcare settings, combining safety, precision and quality craftsmanship.