The HSE is planning to build a new endoscopy room at University Hospital Galway.

It will take up to twelve months to complete the project, once building contractors are appointed in the coming weeks.

Works will be carried out on the fourth floor of the existing building in phases to create a third endoscopy room.

The HSE said the project consists of refurbishment and demolition works at UHG and the installation of new partitions, observation screen, doors, new floor and ceiling finishes and mechanical and electrical upgrade works to prepare existing rooms for the installation of an additional endoscopy room with all associated plant and equipment.

The work will have to be carried out within a live hospital environment.

Contractors have been warned that health and safety is a priority, and reports with the tenders suggest they may encounter asbestos.

Staff of the contractor or sub-contractors will not be allowed to park at the hospital and will have to submit a traffic management plan for off-site parking.

“Contractors are advised that many patients and/or visitors are under stress or have metal health issues and as a result may suffer diminished perception of risk and awareness of hazards.

“A particularly high standard of both hygiene and site housekeeping will be required, as will effective fencing, barriers and signage to prevent access to work area,” according to tender documents.

The new diagnostics room will be used for endoscopies, tests where doctors can look inside patients’ bodies.