Johnson Controls is one of a number of companies selected by the NHS for its six-year National Framework Agreement for the provision of Smart Building Solutions using the Internet of Things (IoT).

The framework will advance plans to support the delivery of smart hospitals, enabling local authorities and wider public bodies to more readily procure smart building technologies, providing time and money saving efficiencies. The solutions represent a serious step change in the ambition to set a new standard in the UK’s ageing healthcare infrastructure through technical innovation.

Public bodies now have the opportunity to tap into innovative buildings solutions that enable automated monitoring and control of energy use, building occupancy, and asset visibility. The framework is at the forefront of bringing in new digital capabilities across hospitals in a bid to deliver superior experiences for users while decreasing energy use and emissions, in line with the UK’s ambitious net-zero objectives.

Led by The Countess of Chester Commercial Hospital Procurement Services, the framework will drive the transformation of smart hospitals, creating world class facilities fit for the future and improving efficiency through data-enabled solutions that respond to the needs of patients, staff, and visitors.

Smart hospitals deliver myriad benefits from ensuring clean air quality for doctors and patients, to reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and incorporating smart systems that reduce friction and improve communications. Such technologies play a vital role in reducing costs while enhancing patient and staff satisfaction, patient care, and quality.

Andy Ellis, vice president and general manager, Johnson Controls UK&I said: “We are excited to have been selected by the NHS. Our technology makes it possible to support sustainability goals at scale and has the enormous potential to shape the smart hospitals and healthcare facilities of the future. We look forward to the innovations we can bring to all occupants at every level across our healthcare sector.”

Mark Bouldin, healthy buildings specialist at Johnson Controls, explained further, “The last 2 years has prompted us all to reassess the role, purpose and functionality of the places and spaces we occupy every day. There is now a renewed focus on our built environment, to create new occupant experiences and optimise conditions to support productivity through to health and wellbeing. Smart buildings are at the very heart of a transformative occupant experience but beyond all that they have a significant sustainable purpose too. To stand a chance of hitting net-zero targets, every building, including energy-intensive estates such as hospitals, must embrace smart technologies. An energy-optimised building costs less to run, delivering maximum energy efficiencies and transforming user experiences. With its vast, global experience, innovative technologies, and dedicated expertise.”