Construction
How and why adding space for Covid Testing is better than using current school space
February 22, 2021
By Trafalgar Team

Covid testing has naturally placed additional strain on often already limited space in schools and colleges, in addition the unique requirements for testing areas means that certain spaces are unable to be utilised. 

By using a marquee or temporary structure, Covid testing can be not only be created in a safe, socially distanced space, but also one that can be a segregated space away from the main school estate and buildings, with separate entry and exits (including exit for those with a positive Covid-19 test), along with additional space for waiting for the test result. 

The advantage of using a temporary structure extends to its location. We are able to set up our structures on both hard standing (such as car parks and tennis courts) and grass (such as sports playing fields). 

Using a temporary structure gives flexibility with size. Increasing or reducing the size of the structure depending on requirements is simple. The inside fittings can also be varied. We offer a wide range of fit out depending on budgets and requirements, these include the required washable floor surface required for testing (to R10 slip resistance). 

Here’s a quick checklist for you. Compare and contrast your current solution with this list:

Segregated space

  • Space away & independent from the school. Depending on the layout of the school, you may want to keep this away from the main flow points around the school.
  • Siting the testing station near key access points I.e. school gates can make it easier for pupils, and staff. Testing could be done on the way into school. Then, if tested positive, it makes it easier for people to leave

Custom design

  • Separate access/egress for +ve & -ve results will minimise any possible infections.
  • Fully-contained space, with everything that is needed by both those doing the testing and those being tested. All tests can be stored in the space.
  • Don’t worry if you have no playing fields or soft areas. Marquees can be sited onto hard standing (I.e. car park) or grass (I.e. sports/playing field).
  • Fully washable floor, with R-10 slip resistant vinyl.
  • Social distancing is already impacting the space in the school. Having a temporary space outside of the school means covid Testing doesn’t impact on current space within school space.
  • Scalable solution for large or small applications, structures can be customised for your requirements. If you need a lot of space initially, but then instructions change, we can scale the space to your precise needs.
  • Your current buildings cannot be adapted; marquees can. We can create separate waiting areas, either using partition screens or marquee walls.
  • Social distancing can be maintained with ease and within design of structure and through routing guidance. We can provide all the signage you need too.

How many of the 10 points in this checklist can your current solution provide?

To find out more about how a temporary structure can fit into your school, call us now, on 01932 620 060 or click here.

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The Bespoke Furniture Company

Fantastic support to us
Trafalgar Structures have been a fantastic support to us since we reopened after lockdown. The provision of a high quality marquee to help facilitate our opening strategy meant we could cater for adult and child classes whilst following the required government guidance. The service and workmanship from the team was first class and the team were always happy to help out if any issues arose and amendments to the marquee were needed. I look forward to working with the team again and would fully recommend for any marquee needs

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COO, Denbies Wine Estate LTD

I cannot find fault in anything they did

We used Trafalgar Structures at the start of lock down. We were very fortunate to be able to remain fully working however, as everyone did, we had to make some major adaptions on our site to accommodate the 2m distancing. I came across Trafalgar Structures and I found them to be extremely helpful, knowledgeable and helpful. We had constant changes to the brief but that didn’t matter to James and his team, they were very accommodating and continued to be very helpful and help fulfil the works we required as well as give a lot of suggestions to make this work. The team that erected/ dismantled the marquee were extremely professional and friendly and helpful throughout the 2 days. I would highly recommend Trafalgar Structures and I would certainly use them again. I cannot find fault in anything they did. Thank you all so much for your help and guidance

Logistics Manager
Clipfine Limited

Trafalgar Structures came to the rescue when the school needed additional outdoor teaching and testing facilities during the Covid pandemic. The cost of hire was extremely competitive and more than reasonable, particularly when you consider their services are much in demand. From the MD to the installers on the ground they were easy to deal with – nothing was too much trouble. Even last minute changes, and their after sales service was just as good. Its not every day you hire a marquee, but if I have to in the future, Trafalgar will be my first port of call. A huge thank you to James and the team!

Neil Lowe
Lady Eleanor Holles school