Focus: Facility Design

Healthcare Facility Design Can Impact Infection Control

Environmental services should participate in the design process


The way a healthcare facility is designed and the materials and furniture chosen can impact infection control efforts, according to an article on the Health Facilities Management website.

Surface selection in healthcare facilities is a foundational issue, according to Linda Lybert, president of Healthcare Surface Consulting LLC and co-founder of the Healthcare Surfaces Summit.

“Most people think of surfaces as part of the design and construction process rather than part of an infection prevention and control program,” she said. 

“When selecting materials, a lot of focus tends to be given to colors and textures. Although these aspects of a surface material are certainly important, there are many other surface properties that are critically important, yet are not thought about or given proper evaluation. After all, the most soothing color and texture is of little value to a surface that cannot be cleaned or disinfected properly.”

For instance, it’s important that design teams select surfaces that are easily wiped down by facility staff. Wood, for example, typically is not ideal in high-risk spaces. It tends to be porous and its finishes can quickly be stripped away with repetitive cleanings. It’ll work for low-traffic areas like administrative offices, but not so much for patient rooms, according to a blog by Todd Imming, Chief Marketing Officer for The Korte Company.

Read the full Health Facilities Management article.

 

 



October 26, 2020


Topic Area: Infection Control


Recent Posts

Fire at Assisted Living Facility Kills 9, Injures 30

Half of the building’s residents were evacuated through small windows.


North Carolina Children's Health Selects Apex for Campus Location

The groundbreaking is anticipated to happen in 2027.


Designing for Access: Addressing Pharmacy Deserts with Flexible Solutions

Design is an increasingly important consideration for closing the gap in pharmaceutical access.


Baylor Scott & White Health Set to Open New Texas Medical Center 

The new 40-acre campus will offer communal green spaces, more than two miles of trails, health and wellness events and activities for everyone to enjoy.


The Future of Backup Power Systems in Healthcare Facilities

Manufacturers discuss what trends are shaping the future of backup power systems in healthcare.


 
 


FREE Newsletter Signup Form

News & Updates | Webcast Alerts
Building Technologies | & More!

 
 
 


All fields are required. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.