The American Society for Healthcare Engineering (ASHE) is a professional membership group of the American Hospital Association dedicated to optimizing the healthcare built environment. ASHE provides specialized education and training to prepare and certify individuals who work in the complex healthcare environment. Similar to the LEED certification process, to become a certified healthcare constructor (CHC) requires in-depth knowledge, training and experience. At The Christman Company, we understand that healthcare facilities are unique spaces that require expert attention and precaution, much like the process of treating patients. 

As a healthcare provider, there are many benefits to consider when choosing to work with partners who are ASHE certified. As CHC certified Project Executive for The Christman Company, Craig Smith, explains, “Working in a healthcare environment is different than working in any other environment. Providing a certification parameter is an excellent way to validate credibility and the ASHE certification is a respected benchmark that healthcare facilities should use to gauge the credibility of the individuals working on their construction projects.”

Healthcare constructors need to fully understand the impact construction activities have on patient safety and how to navigate space in an operational facility. Other distinct considerations include air pressure relationships, medical gas systems, infection control practices, interim life safety measures, quality, paperwork and administration, project risk assessments and security.

To become eligible for CHC certification, constructors must have at least five years of healthcare experience and most possess a higher education degree. A complete certification involves thorough studies, on-site experience and a knowledge verification exam consisting of 75-questions. A constructor’s certification is valid for three years before a renewal is required.  

 “I believe more and more healthcare facilities will require their constructors to hold a certification in the near future,” Smith states. “As healthcare construction projects become more and more complex and difficult to implement, the individuals who perform, manage, and coordinate the work should be required to have the proper experience. ASHE is in the forefront of training and has developed a sound measurement of experience with the Certified Healthcare Constructor certification process.” 

Want to learn more about how this certification helps hold Christman to a higher standard? Contact Craig Smith for more information.