The Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland (RCSI) developed a Dental Education Centre in Sandyford, Dublin, to expand its training capacity and provide a state-of-the-art building for dental students. The project involved the change of use of an existing office building into a modern, purpose-built dental school across three floors, with a total area of approximately 2,000 m².
The ground floor accommodates live dental training facilities, where students work in pairs with dental assistants under the supervision of professors overseeing multiple dental chairs. The first floor houses advanced simulation rooms, allowing students to develop practical skills using dental training dummies, while the second floor comprises offices, breakout spaces, and sanitary facilities.
BB7 Response
BB7 were appointed to provide an integrated service covering Fire Engineering, Assigned Certifier, Project Supervisor Design Process (PSDP), and Disability Access Consulting. Working collaboratively with the client, design team, and contractor, our team coordinated the fire and access strategies from concept through to handover.
As the building was an existing structure undergoing significant alteration, a key focus was on assessing the structural fire performance of the retained steel frame and ensuring that new and existing elements performed adequately under fire conditions. We also addressed challenges associated with the installation of new mechanical ventilation systems and the fire stopping of penetrations through compartment walls and floors.
Throughout the project, we led and participated in a series of coordination workshops to integrate the fire and disability access strategies within the evolving design. Our collaborative approach ensured these strategies were implemented effectively from concept through to handover, maintaining compliance with Building Regulations while accommodating the specific operational needs of a dental education facility.
The project operated under a time-sensitive programme to ensure completion ahead of the academic year in September, requiring a proactive and solution-focused approach. Our team worked efficiently to resolve technical issues as they arose, supporting the client and design team to achieve timely certification and readiness for occupation.
Benefits of service
Our integrated approach provided RCSI with a streamlined and coordinated compliance pathway, reducing risk across design, construction, and handover stages. By addressing complex fire safety and accessibility challenges early, we enabled the project to progress on schedule and achieve regulatory approval without compromising quality or safety. The result is a fully compliant, accessible, and safe learning environment that supports RCSI’s commitment to excellence in dental education.
