Maximizing Hospital Construction Budgets by Choosing the Right Cabling

A major hurdle in many hospital construction projects is budgets that often exceed projections. To help organizations save costs, consultants brainstorm value engineering solutions. Quality value-engineering solutions should reduce costs without compromising quality. One effective strategy for low-voltage technology design involves opting for CMR (Communication Riser) rated cabling over CMP (Communication Plenum) rated cabling. CMR cabling costs about half as much as CMP cabling and frequently meets code requirements thought to necessitate CMP. We have seen our clients achieve substantial savings by making this switch.

Understanding CMR vs. CMP Cabling

There are various information technology network cables that meet hospital code requirements. Two common ones we see in healthcare are CMR and CMP cabling. 

CMR cabling is most commonly used in vertical spaces between floors, known as risers. Due to its flame-resistant materials, it prevents fire from spreading vertically and contains fire within a single floor level. These qualities enable it to comply with various healthcare facility building code requirements.

Other spaces within a building require more than what CMR cabling provides. That is where CMP cabling comes in. CMP cabling is used in spaces with air circulation (plenum) because of its fire resistance and low smoke emission.

Besides the difference in fire resistance/smoke emission, CMR and CMP cabling are very similar in IT network performance and cable diameter (with CMR cabling being a bit larger in diameter). However, CMP is often double the cost of CMR.

Why CMR is Sufficient in Many Hospitals

In hospitals, HVAC systems are fully ducted, meaning the ceiling space is not a return air plenum. Since this area does not circulate air, it reclassifies these spaces as general-purpose areas, the National Electric Code, which has been adopted by all states, allows for the use of CMR cabling in general purpose spaces. It is best to gain written approval from the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) before making this change so there are no surprises during construction.

Performance and Practical Considerations

CMR cabling performs just as well as CMP cabling. Although CMR cables often have a slightly wider diameter, this difference is usually manageable without altering pathways, racks, or other infrastructure.

Proven Savings

Switching to CMR cabling has enabled hospitals to save millions in construction costs. This simple design change frees up construction dollars, allowing hospitals to spend more resources on improving the patient and staff experience. A dedicated technology consultant can help hospital design teams navigate specific requirements and coordinate with key stakeholders like IT departments, MEP engineers, fire life safety officers, owners, and architects. 

For more information and to explore how to implement this in your projects, visit our website and contact us through our contact page.