This equates to an average of 1,661 deaths per year. 95% of those fatalities were associated with low-lying ligature points and 29% occurred in washrooms.
In an effort to help designers make higher-risk areas safer for users, the NHS published its ‘Never Events’ policy and framework documents. Amongst other measures, they recommend the specification of anti-ligature fittings.
Anti-ligature washroom dispensers typically feature smooth, downward-sloping surfaces. This reduces the possibility that a ligature (e.g. belt, laces, etc) could be attached. Risks are further reduced by ensuring that dispensers have no removable or protruding components, and that they’re attached to the wall by means of a recessed wall plate. Locks on housings should generally be of the flush-fitting barrel type. Product examples include anti-ligature toilet roll holders, hand dryers and dispensers for soap, gel or paper towels.
In settings where there is an assessed risk of self-harm, designers also have the option of sturdy, glass-free safety mirrors that won’t produce sharp fragments if damaged.
Accessibility
The number of people using wheelchairs and walking aids will tend to be higher in healthcare buildings than in other settings, so providing a sufficient number of accessible toilets and washrooms is essential. Issues such as cubicle widths, basin heights and the provision of grab rails are widely appreciated but, in ordinary washrooms, designers can often do more to improve the user experience.
Installing wall-mounted dispensers above hand basins is an effective way of simplifying room layouts and removing ‘narrowing points’ in busy or relatively confined spaces. For example, designers can choose behind-the-mirror systems that include both a soap dispenser and a hand dryer, and which therefore enable users to perform their full washing routine without having to move from the basin. They create no additional obtrusions into the room and, if they feature
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a hand dryer rather than a towel dispenser, they will also eliminate the need to place a large waste bin by the exit.
In other settings, where equipment must be installed somewhere other than above basins, slimline dispensers will help to ensure that washrooms are well-equipped without unduly impinging on valuable floor space.
Multi-faith settings
Given that Britain is a multicultural nation, washrooms in healthcare premises should accommodate people of different faiths. An example is Islam. The proportion of Muslims in Britain is increasing, and their needs include being able to use a suitable washstation before prayer.
Wash stations for Wudu – ritual cleansing – don’t require much space but, for Muslims, they make washrooms much more user-friendly; they enable the face, hands, arms and feet to be washed safely and comfortably. They are typically supplied with a matching stool, a hinged foot plate, and a tap that produces a soft, low-pressure spray. This limits the risk of spray back and lessens waste water, whilst also helping to keep washroom floors drier and safer.
Reliability and repairs
Frequently used washroom equipment may break down as a result of simple wear and tear but, as publicly accessible places, washrooms in healthcare settings may also be exposed to elevated risks of theft and vandalism. Consequently, the physical security of dispensers is an important design factor. Choosing robust equipment and materials is essential to ensuring reliability and value.
Stainless steel is an ideal choice for dispensers that may be subject to heavy use and accidental damage. It will readily withstand scratches and ordinary impacts, and it’s highly resistant to casual vandalism and tampering. It does not readily corrode and it makes an excellent choice in washrooms subject to regular and rigorous cleaning.
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