How to Prepare Your Facility for Mobile Imaging Equipment: Site Planning Guide
Mobile imaging solutions are transforming healthcare delivery by making advanced diagnostic technologies more accessible and flexible. Whether you're renting or purchasing a mobile unit for CT, MRI, PET/CT, or Mammography, proper site preparation is critical to ensure seamless setup and operation.
This guide outlines the essential steps every facility should take before bringing a mobile imaging unit on site.
Prepare a Proper Pad
Surface & Stability
The unit must rest on a solid, level surface. A concrete pad is ideal for long-term use and stability, especially for heavier modalities like MRI and PET/CT. Asphalt may be used temporarily, but support plates should be added to prevent trailer legs from sinking during warmer months.
Recommended Pad Dimensions
Standard trailer-based mobile units range from 48' to 53' in length and 8.5' in width (not including slide-outs). The pad should be at least 60' long x 14' wide, with a weight-bearing capacity up to 48,500 pounds, depending on the equipment type.
Leveling
To maintain proper equipment performance and safety, the pad must be level with no more than a 0.125” variation over 10 feet.
💡 Tip: Split pads can provide cost savings depending on your modality and pad configuration. Refer to your equipment’s site planning guide for compatibility.
Account for Space & Clearance
Unit Size & Turning Radius
Mobile trailers require adequate turning clearance and delivery access for large tractors. Ensure your site allows entry and exit for 18-wheelers, along with sufficient space for slide-outs and rear lift gates (if applicable).
Vertical & Horizontal Clearance
Keep the area around the trailer clear. Remove or relocate nearby power lines, tree branches, and light poles. Provide 3–5 feet of clearance around all sides for technician access, cooling systems, and service.
Access Ramps or Lifts
Install ramps or powered lifts to ensure safe and accessible entry for all patients, especially those with mobility limitations.
Exterior Coverage
Protect patients from the elements. Consider an overhead canopy, vestibule, or tented area — and check with your local Department of Health (DOH) for any state-specific patient protection requirements.
Ensure Proper Power Supply
Power Requirements Vary by Modality:
CT, MRI, PET/CT Units: 480V, 3-phase, 200 amps
Mammography Units: 208V or 120V, depending on the system
Generator or Shore Power
Some trailers include onboard generators. If using shore power, confirm your facility has the correct Russellstoll-style plug, and that it’s located within 30–40 feet of the mobile unit.
⚡ Note: Generators included with mobile imaging trailers are not designed for scanning use. Their purpose is to maintain environmental controls (e.g., HVAC) when shore power is unavailable.
Set Up Network & Connectivity
Data Integration & PACS
Ensure the mobile unit connects to your imaging center or hospital network. Most setups require RJ45 Ethernet jacks for fast, secure image transfers and DICOM routing.
Wireless Alternatives
Though cellular uplinks or VPNs can be used, hardwired network access is highly recommended for reliability and speed.
On-Site IT Support
Coordinate with your IT team to support installation day activities, including network connection, firewall setup, and data testing.
Understand State-Specific Compliance Requirements
Licensing & Inspections
Some states require submission of architectural plans, site drawings, or pre-use inspection approvals. For example, Washington State mandates plan approval and two inspections, which can cost $20,000–$25,000.
Radiation Safety
CT, PET/CT, and Mammography equipment must meet state radiation protection guidelines. This often includes shielding verification, physicist testing, and registration with your state’s radiation safety authority.
Mobile MRI Safety
Ensure mobile MRI units are placed well away from metallic structures and high-voltage systems. These magnets demand specialized placement assessments to avoid interference or safety hazards.
Additional Recommendations
On-Site Storage: Plan for nearby storage of supplies like linens, contrast media, gowns, and emergency kits.
Security & Monitoring: Install motion-activated lighting and cameras to protect staff, patients, and equipment.
Parking Signage: Use clear, branded signage to guide patients and staff to the trailer.
Applications Training: Book manufacturer or vendor training sessions for staff to ensure comfort with the unit before the first scheduled patient.
Final Thoughts
Mobile imaging units are powerful tools to increase patient access, improve flexibility, and reduce facility build-out costs. But success starts with planning.
At USA Mobile Medical, we provide end-to-end site planning support — from reviewing pad specs to navigating state compliance and assisting with setup. Our expert team ensures your mobile imaging project starts strong and stays on track.
👉 Need help preparing your site?
Visit us at www.usamobilemedical.com or contact us for a custom site planning consultation.
