In early 2022, Modbury Hospital completed an extensive refurbishment that included the construction of new specialist facilities, operating theatres, procedure rooms, short stay units, a palliative care unit, administrative areas, and infrastructure upgrades. These improvements were designed to equip the hospital to meet the evolving healthcare needs of the local community for years to come. HI Lighting played a vital role in this transformation, supplying high-quality, durable healthcare lighting solutions throughout the facility.

In medical settings, achieving optimal visual performance goes beyond just adequate light levels. It requires the right balance of colour temperature and high Colour Rendering Index (CRI) to ensure medical staff can diagnose and treat patients with speed and accuracy. Even with modern healthcare technology, the quality of lighting remains critical for delivering precise, timely care. Effective lighting helps healthcare professionals perform essential tasks like surgeries, examinations, recovery monitoring, and diagnostics with confidence and clarity.

A crucial factor is the illumination and colour rendering provided by the lighting system. High-quality light sources allow medical staff to identify conditions and symptoms accurately. In tasks involving colour perception, such as distinguishing subtle variations in skin tone, measured by the Cyanosis Observation Index (COI)  the colour quality of the light source is vital. The high-quality LED systems used at Modbury Hospital, ensure that these important tasks are carried out with the necessary clarity and precision.

At the heart of the Modbury Hospital’s lighting upgrade, Digilin’s recessed linear systems were installed throughout the wards, hallways and administration areas. The systems use of high colour rendering (CRI 95) 4000K LED, providing primary ambient and pathfinding lighting. The customisable Australian made extrusion, available in Cyanosis compliant, IP44 or IP65 variants, ensures adaptability to various healthcare environments, enhancing both patient comfort and staff efficiency.

The project also featured Visionline VL11 by LPE Group, a flexible IP67 rated extrusion offering a curved, dot free solution for linear lighting applications. Proudly manufactured in South Australia, this modern design enhances the lighting experience in key areas of the hospital, providing both functionality and visual appeal.

HI Lighting also supplied a range of downlights tailored to different spaces within the hospital. These included double slotter downlights for administration areas and anti-tamper downlights for more secure locations, ensuring each area received the optimal lighting solution for its specific needs.

To further enhance the hospital’s atmosphere, decorative wall lights were used in walkways and waiting rooms. These lights not only add a layer of ambiance but also create a calming and welcoming environment for patients and visitors, while still adhering to the hospital’s rigorous healthcare standards.

Beyond supporting patient care, lighting in hospitals plays a significant role in staff wellbeing and overall efficiency. In patient rooms, lighting can aid in regulating circadian rhythms, promoting better sleep patterns, and improving overall comfort. The upgrades at Modbury Hospital now provide a lighting environment that enhances patient care, improves staff working conditions, and ensures long-term benefits for the local community.

Project Team:

Department of Infrastructure and Transport/Health SA
GHD Woodhead
Silver Thomas Hanley (STH)
Built Environs
Brad Griffin Photography