CT Scanner Room Requirements: Shielding, Power and Space Planning
Whether you are converting an existing room or building a new imaging suite, careful planning is the key to a smooth CT installation. This guide covers the main requirements for a CT scanner room and the steps involved in getting from empty room to first patient.
1. Room size and layout
A CT suite usually has three areas: the scan room (gantry and patient table), the control room (operator console with a shielded viewing window) and an equipment area for cabinets and power distribution, depending on the model. The scan room must allow full table travel, safe patient transfer from a trolley or bed, and access for staff and emergency equipment. Exact dimensions depend on the scanner model, so always plan from the manufacturer's site planning guide.
2. Lead shielding
CT scanners produce scattered radiation, so walls, doors and the viewing window normally need shielding. In the UK, the shielding design should be agreed with your Radiation Protection Adviser (RPA), who will consider the expected workload, the use of neighbouring rooms and occupancy. Shielding is usually provided with lead-lined plasterboard, lead-lined doors and lead glass windows.
3. Floor loading
CT gantries are heavy. The floor must support the load of the gantry and table, and the delivery route from the entrance to the room must be checked for weight, width, height and turning space.
4. Electrical supply
CT scanners require a dedicated, stable electrical supply sized for the system's peak demand, with appropriate isolation and emergency stop arrangements. Your electrical contractor will work from the manufacturer's specification.
5. Cooling and air conditioning
The gantry and computer equipment generate heat, and image quality and reliability depend on stable temperature and humidity. Plan for adequate air conditioning in the scan room and any equipment room.
6. Data and IT
Provide network connections for PACS and RIS integration, remote service access and, if used, teleradiology reporting.
7. Regulations in the UK
Ionising Radiations Regulations 2017 (IRR17) – cover radiation protection for staff and the public, including the critical examination of the installation.
Ionising Radiation (Medical Exposure) Regulations 2017 (IR(ME)R) – cover patient exposures and procedures.
CQC registration – independent providers offering diagnostic imaging in England normally need to be registered with the Care Quality Commission.
8. The installation process
Site survey and equipment selection
Room design and shielding specification
Civil, electrical and cooling works
Delivery and positioning of the scanner
Installation, calibration and commissioning
Critical examination and acceptance testing
Applications training and go-live
A typical turnkey CT installation takes 8 to 16 weeks, depending mainly on the extent of building work.
Let us handle it
Rising Medical Technologies delivers complete turnkey CT projects, from site survey and lead shielding to installation and training. Read about refurbished CT scanner costs, see our CT scanner services, or contact us to arrange a site survey.
