Mercedes-Benz Sprinter ICU Ambulance; In high-stakes industrial environments, the line between routine operations and a critical emergency can be thin. For a global energy leader like The Shell Petroleum Development Company operating in Nigeria, the readiness of emergency medical response is not just a regulatory requirement but a core commitment to the safety and well-being of its workforce and surrounding communities. It is with immense pride that ICU Otomotiv announces the supply and commissioning of a fully-equipped, state-of-the-art Mercedes-Benz Sprinter ICU Ambulance, engineered to the highest international standards for deployment in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
This vehicle is more than just transport; it is a mobile Intensive Care Unit (ICU), designed to provide advanced life support from the moment of intervention at the incident site to the gates of a definitive healthcare facility. This blog post offers a detailed exploration of the technical specifications, medical capabilities, and robust features of this purpose-built Mercedes Sprinter Ambulance, demonstrating its suitability for the demanding operational landscape of the Niger Delta.
Section 1: The Unshakeable Foundation – Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Chassis
The choice of the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter as the base vehicle is a testament to a philosophy built on reliability, safety, and performance. Renowned globally for its durability and engineering excellence, the Sprinter provides the ideal platform for a critical care ambulance.
- Robust Dimensions and Build: The vehicle is built on a long, high-roof chassis with an overall length of 6,000 mm and an imposing outer cabin height of 3,000 mm. This provides a voluminous 9 m³ patient compartment, with a standing height of 1,800 mm, allowing medical personnel to work effectively without constraint. The full steel-reinforced, thermally insulated body ensures structural integrity and protection from the external environment.
- Power and Performance: While the specific document references a 4000cc engine, the Sprinter platform, particularly in its 417 CDI variant, is known for its powerful and efficient diesel engines. The key requirement of a minimum of 20kW per ton of Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) is comfortably exceeded, ensuring ample power for rapid response, even when fully loaded with personnel and life-saving equipment. The rear-wheel-drive configuration and high 450 mm ground clearance provide stability and capability on various road surfaces, a critical feature for the diverse terrain in and around industrial areas.
- Superior Safety Systems: True to the Mercedes-Benz legacy, the chassis is equipped with a comprehensive suite of active and passive safety features. This includes a 5-star NHTSA/NCAP safety rating, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), and Vehicle Stability Control (VSC). Coupled with driver and front passenger airbags, three-point seatbelts for all occupants, and effective head restraints, this ambulance is designed to protect its precious cargo—both patient and crew—under all conditions.
Section 2: The Mobile Clinic – Design and Features of the Medical Compartment
The conversion of the van into a medical cell is where specific operational needs are met with precision engineering. Every aspect is designed for efficiency, hygiene, and durability.
- Ergonomic Layout and Access: The compartment is accessed via a lockable right-hand sliding door with a limiter and wide, solid aluminum side steps. The rear features lockable, side-opening doors. The interior layout is meticulously planned to ensure a 0.3-meter clear aisle walkway and a 0.25-meter clearance from the stretcher to the rear doors for easy loading of long boards and traction splints.
- Climate Control: Recognizing the tropical climate of Nigeria, the ambulance is fitted with a dual-zone OEM climate control system. The patient compartment has an independent, powerful system with six downward-facing A/C vents mounted in the roof, all controllable from within the rear cabin. An auxiliary heating system beneath the vehicle provides warmth when needed.
- Interior Finishing and Safety: The walls and ceiling are lined with thermally insulated, washable materials. The floor is finished with anti-slip, wear-resistant PVC. The patient compartment features frosted glass for privacy, with the top third remaining clear to allow natural light. strategically placed grab handles and roof handrails ensure crew stability while the vehicle is in motion. An emergency exit door with a break-glass hammer is clearly marked for added safety.
Section 3: Comprehensive Medical and Life Support Systems
This ambulance is equipped to function as a fully advanced life support (ALS) and ICU unit, capable of handling a wide spectrum of medical emergencies, from trauma to cardiac events.
A. Oxygen and Airway Management:
- Oxygen Supply: The system is built around two 10-liter oxygen cylinders securely mounted on the side wall. A laid underfloor oxygen tube with T-adapters connects the supply.
- Distribution and Delivery: A Weinmann module oxygen system (0-15 ltr/min) and a DIN 4.5 bar oxygen extraction connection are installed. This is complemented by a comprehensive set of resuscitation masks in five sizes—from baby to adult—ensuring capability for all age groups.
- Suction System: A Module suction for secretion suction (0 to -0.5 bar) is wall-mounted for clearing airways. For portable use, an Ambu Power Pack suction pump with integrated battery backup is included, providing critical suction power independent of the vehicle’s electrical system.
B. Critical Care Medical Equipment:
- Cardiac Life Support: The vehicle is equipped with a First Responder LifePak 1000 defibrillator. This sophisticated unit is a semi-automatic defibrillator with a 3-lead pacer, cardioverter, ECG display, and voice prompts, representing the gold standard in pre-hospital cardiac care.
- Monitoring and Diagnostics: For continuous patient assessment, the ambulance carries a Pulse Oximeter, a Sphygmomanometer for blood pressure, a Cappometer, and multiple stethoscopes and thermometers. A Glucometer is also on board for rapid blood sugar level checks.
- Advanced Airway Management: To secure a patient’s airway in critical situations, the unit includes a laryngeal mask airway in both child and adult sizes and an adult Combi-tube.
- Ventilation: An electric, wall-mounted ventilator is installed to provide mechanical breathing support for patients who are unable to breathe on their own.
C. Immobilization and Patient Handling:
- Stretcher System: The centerpiece is a self-loading stretcher with an adjustable height, an automatic latch locking system, and a compartment underneath for a scoop board and trauma board. This ensures safe and effortless patient loading and transport.
- Immobilization Devices: A full suite of devices is included: a vacuum mattress with a 3-chamber system, a spinal immobilizer, a back board with head and neck support, and a vacuum splint set for both adults and children.
Section 4: Comprehensive Kits and Storage Solutions
Organization is key in an emergency. The ambulance features intelligent storage to keep a vast array of equipment accessible and secure.
- Medical Kits: A robust, aluminum emergency doctor’s kit (DIN 13232) is stocked for resuscitation, intubation, injection, infusion, and dressings. Specialized kits include a Burn set, a comprehensive First Aid kit, and an obstetrics kit.
- Storage Furniture: The layout includes a side cupboard with a sink, complete with fresh and wastewater tanks. It also features lockable drawers, a Chevrolet drawer, a shelf for emergency kits, and a 12V thermo box for storing temperature-sensitive medications.
- Additional Essentials: The vehicle is stocked with everything from sharps containers and waste containers to vomit bags, isothermic blankets, and a wheelchair with a dedicated securing bracket.
Section 5: Electrical, Lighting, and Warning Systems
A robust electrical system is the nerve center of the ambulance.
- Power Management: The 12V electrical system is supported by maintenance-free batteries and features a 220-230V external charging port with a cable, allowing the vehicle to be plugged into grid power to preserve batteries during extended standby.
- Interior Lighting: The compartment is illuminated by ten halogen spots and dome lights, providing brilliant, shadow-free light for medical procedures.
- Exterior Warning Systems: For emergency response, the vehicle is equipped with a beacon module with two rotating red lights, two blue rotating lights on the rear, and a full complement of hazard, park, turn, and brake lights. An audible reverse alarm and a loud siren with a WAIL-YELP-HI-LO function ensure the vehicle is seen and heard.
Section 6: Compliance, Training, and Warranty
ICU Otomotiv ensures that this Mercedes Sprinter Ambulance is delivered not just as a vehicle, but as a complete operational asset.
- Full Compliance: All documents, including manuals and certificates, are supplied in their original English versions. The vehicle conforms to all specified UN and international standards referenced in the tender.
- Comprehensive Training: OEM representatives will conduct thorough training for Shell’s designated personnel on the operation and maintenance of both the vehicle and the specialized medical equipment. This includes demonstrating that all functions meet the desired performance requirements.
- Clear Warranty Terms: We provide clear and comprehensive terms and conditions for the vehicle warranty and any applicable free services and inspections, ensuring long-term reliability and support.
Conclusion: A Partnership for Safety and Resilience – Mercedes-Benz Sprinter ICU Ambulance for Nigeria
The delivery of this advanced Mercedes-Benz Sprinter ICU Ambulance to The Shell Petroleum Development Company of Nigeria marks a significant enhancement of their emergency response capabilities. This vehicle embodies a fusion of German automotive engineering and specialized medical conversion expertise, tailored to meet the unique challenges of the Nigerian industrial context.
It stands as a powerful symbol of Shell’s unwavering commitment to HSE (Health, Safety, and Environment) and reflects ICU Otomotiv’s dedication to delivering world-class, life-saving solutions. We are honored to be a part of this critical initiative and are confident that this ambulance will serve as a vital asset for the people of Port Harcourt and the wider Shell community.
Supplier & Manufacturer:
Company Name: ICU OTOMOTİV İTHALAT İHRACAT VE DANIŞMANLIK LİMİTED ŞİRKETİ
Address (Türkiye): SARAY MAH. 36 CAD. NO: 12 D KAHRAMANKAZAN / ANKARA
Address (UAE): Warehouse No. FZS1-BH07 South 1 – Jabal Ali Industrial Second – Dubai
Website: infinitychassis.com
E-mail: info@infinitychassis.com / dubai@infinitychassis.com
Phone: +90 555 104 06 48
End User:
Company Name: THE SHELL PETROLEUM DEVELOPMENT COMPANY
