The GHCF Facilities Management—Operational Systems
Operational systems of the Gabriola Community Health Centre are above average compared with any health-care facility in other rural or urban areas similar in population size.
Nola Johnson
Water
Existing System
The primary potable water supply comes from a well on the property. The well is capable of feeding all three cisterns which are non-potable, potable, and firefighting water.
To optimize water use, both the non-potable and the firefighting water cisterns collect rainwater from the Health Centre roof. There is a pipe connecting the non-potable and firefighting cisterns to ensure collected rainwater keeps these cisterns topped up whenever possible.
Water for the potable cistern is treated through filters, an ultraviolet lamp, and reverse osmosis watermaker to meet British Columbia health standards. The firefighting cistern provides water solely for firefighting and feeds a dedicated diesel pump supplying water to a sprinkler system throughout the building.
Additional Water Storage
The Foundation is increasing rainwater harvesting capacity to meet the Health Centre’s operational needs. We are adding three 2,500 imperial gallon cisterns and a 1,660 imperial gallon collector cistern, all to be housed in a climate-controlled 24’ x 24’ building adjacent to the existing Generator Building.
Rainwater will be collected from the roofs of both buildings. This additional 7,500 gallons will ensure adequate water supply during the shoulder and summer months, supporting the Health Centre’s continued operations.
In parallel to the additional water storage, the Health Centre has been approved by Island Health to filter rainwater for potable use. The Foundation’s leadership in this area represents an important step for all organizations on Gabriola in normalizing the collection of rainwater for commercial use.
Power
GCHC provides a comprehensive heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system for tenant and patient comfort. In case of a BC Hydro power outage, a 60kW diesel standby generator powers all critical facility elements. The generator conducts a self-diagnostic test for about an hour each month to ensure proper functioning and lubrication.
During an outage, it automatically starts, transferring power from BC Hydro via an auto transfer switch. For short outages (up to 3-4 hours), it operates without monitoring. For extended outages, janitorial staff monitor fuel levels and lubrication.
Regular service is provided by dedicated contractors, service personnel, and volunteers to maintain the functionality of the centre including: mechanical, HVAC, plumbing, and electrical, janitorial, water system routine maintenance, landscape & garden maintenance.
