Renovating a radiology clinic is vastly different from a standard commercial or healthcare fitout. The technical requirements — from shielding and acoustic isolation to services coordination and compliance — make it a high-stakes process. Even small missteps can lead to licensing delays, equipment incompatibilities, and major cost blowouts.
Here are the top 10 renovation mistakes we see in radiology projects — and how you can avoid them.
1. Starting Without a Clear Scope or Functional Brief
Without a detailed clinical and technical brief, radiology projects can fall apart during construction — especially if equipment requirements aren’t known upfront.
Tip:
Define your imaging services (CT, MRI, X-ray, ultrasound) and future growth areas before engaging a designer.
2. Using a Builder Without Radiology Experience
General builders may not understand shielding requirements, vibration sensitivity, or floor loading for heavy imaging equipment.
Tip:
Engage a healthcare fit-out specialist with proven experience in radiology — like SoulMed.
3. Overlooking Radiation Compliance and Shielding Early On
Shielding is not just a material choice — it must be signed off by a licensed Radiation Consultant and meet ARPANSA and state regulations.
Tip:
Bring in a radiation physicist early and submit shielding plans to DHHS (or relevant body) during design.
4. Inadequate Planning for MRI Requirements
MRI suites require Faraday cages, RF shielding, vibration control, and precise HVAC zoning.
Tip:
Ensure your team understands the specific vendor requirements (GE, Siemens, Canon, etc.) before finalising design and services.
5. Insufficient Infrastructure Planning
Radiology services need dedicated power circuits, cooling systems for imaging equipment, and reinforced slabs.
Tip:
Undertake an early services audit and coordinate with the equipment supplier for exact mechanical and electrical specs.
6. Poor Acoustic and Vibration Management
Soundproofing isn’t just for patient comfort — excessive noise or vibration can affect imaging quality, particularly in MRI and ultrasound rooms.
Tip:
Use acoustic partitions and floating floors as needed; plan for isolation between noisy plant and scan areas.
7. Assuming All Approvals Are Straightforward
Radiology involves added layers of complexity: council planning permits, radiation licences, and sometimes EPA consultation.
Tip:
Start the approvals process early — especially shielding and use licences — as they can take 4–8 weeks.
8. Trying to Renovate While Imaging Services Are Live
Keeping scanners operational during fitout can damage sensitive equipment and risk breaching safety protocols.
Tip:
If temporary shutdown is not possible, consider a staged approach or install mobile imaging units during the works.
9. Undervaluing Staff and Patient Flow Design
Radiology clinics have unique movement patterns — from change rooms and cannulation areas to post-scan waiting.
Tip:
Design with efficiency, privacy, and DDA compliance in mind — not just aesthetics.
10. Failing to Involve Imaging Technicians and Radiologists
No one understands the equipment and room usage better than your clinical team. Designs that don’t consider their workflow often miss practical needs.
Tip:
Engage radiographers and radiologists in early planning — especially for equipment layout and line-of-sight planning.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a radiology renovation take?
Most take 10–16 weeks, depending on the modality (MRI often takes longer due to shielding and slab requirements).
Do I need special permits for radiology?
Yes — radiation use licences, shielding approvals, building permits, and planning approval may all be required.
Can I phase the works to reduce downtime?
Yes, but complex imaging modalities like MRI or CT generally require a full shutdown and careful staging.
Avoid Costly Delays and Compliance Risks
At SoulMed, we specialise in designing and delivering fitouts for radiology and diagnostic imaging clinics across Victoria. From shielding approvals to specialist construction and handover, our end-to-end approach ensures your clinic is built right the first time.
Book a free consultation today — and let’s build a space that meets your clinical, technical, and patient needs without compromise.
