IPS AND CLADDING SOLUTIONS
Above: BioPods and BioArmis PVC antimicrobial wall protection installed in A&E bays.
Right: The Raphael clinical washbasin has been created by combining BioClad’s BioCote panel technology, designed to reduce bacterial growth, with infection prevention technology from Angel Guard.
higher level of quality control. Precise manufacturing processes and stringent testing procedures reduce the likelihood of defects or other issues that may arise from traditional on-site assembly.
n Easier maintenance: the compact design of IPS units simplifies access for maintenance and repairs. Technicians can easily identify and address issues within the controlled environment of the unit, which in turn reduces downtime and ensures seamless operation.
n Utilisation: the space-saving nature of IPS units is especially valuable in environments where space is at a premium. IPS units represent a transformative shift in the field of plumbing infrastructure within hygienic environments. Their ability to enhance efficiency, reduce environmental impact, and streamline installation processes, underscores their significance in modern building design and construction. As the construction industry continues to prioritise sustainability and innovation, IPS units are poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the buildings of tomorrow. With the capacity to marry functionality with sustainability, BioPod provides the commitment required to create a better and safer environment for all.
Versatility The versatility of the BioPod IPS units allows them to be installed in a wide range of applications, including healthcare and commercial environments. From veterinary practices to GPs’ surgeries and hospitals, our IPS units offer tailored solutions to meet the specific demands of each environment. The adoption of IPS units is gaining
48 Health Estate Journal October 2023
momentum across the construction industry. Architects, developers, and construction managers, are increasingly recognising the value of these systems in optimising construction processes and enhancing building performance. Looking ahead, the future of the IPS unit design is looking promising. As technology continues to advance, we can expect even more sophisticated integration of ‘smart’ features, real-time monitoring, improved maintenance capabilities, and safety and risk-reducing preventative measures. This is obviously already underway within BioPod, with our units being tested for ligature points and robustness in line with the Design in Mental Health Network and BRE’s Informed Choices guidelines. This will further optimise building operations, and contribute to the goal of our continuing development. The research and development aspect of
any IPS unit is key to ensuring its suitability for all environments, especially when used within mental health environments. With this in mind, we recently commissioned BRE to test a BioPod IPS unit in line with the testing process for ligature points and robustness based on the Informed Choices testing guidance. The process, which included vigorous robustness testing, provided independent insight into the solution’s performance, and was an enormous success from a BioPod point of view. We will shortly start the certification process for the unit with BRE and, once certified, the BioPod IPS unit will be one of the first IPS units on the market certified by BRE, which will be launched as the BioAcute System. ‘Anti-ligature’ refers to safety measures or design features intended to prevent
self-harm or suicide in environments such as hospitals, prisons, psychiatric facilities, and other institutions where individuals may be at risk. BioClad has now released the BioAcute system that is specifically designed for this market sector, with specifically designed IPS units incorporating specialised components and fixings. These features are designed to eliminate or minimise points where an individual could attach a ligature (e.g. rope, cord, or fabric) to harm themselves. Examples of anti-ligature measures include rounded corners, tamper-resistant fixings, break-away fixtures, and ligature- resistant door hardware. The ultimate goal is to create a safer environment for individuals who may be vulnerable to self-harm. The actual unit that was tested by BRE will be on display, and available to view, on the BioClad stand (D5) at Healthcare Estates 2023 in Manchester this month.
Alongside new additions to, and
developments within, our own range, Angel Guard has established a manufacturing partnership with BioPod to enhance the product and provide what we believe is ‘a world-first’ remote water monitoring system. The Raphael clinical washbasin has been created by combining BioClad’s unique BioCote panel technology, designed to reduce bacterial growth, with infection prevention technology from Angel Guard. The Raphael model incorporates award- winning technology from the Michael clinical washbasin unit, also manufactured by Angel Guard, and the Clarence system, believed to be the world’s first remote water monitoring system with biofilm- sensing capabilities. Boasting a brand new, anti-retrograde tap spout named the ‘ARC’, (Anti- Retrograde Contamination) spout, the Raphael model can deliver water through an integrated copper tap spout. The spout itself is constructed with a pipe-within-a-pipe design, and delivers the water through an air gap, helping to prevent splashback, and vastly reducing opportunities for touchpoint contamination.
Installation partner Advanced Hygienic, meanwhile, offers an installation service, with staff with specialist knowledge of, and experience working within, hygienic areas. With vast experience in the installation of hygienic wall linings, hygienic wall protection, and IPS units, the nationwide service offered covers all project aspects. With the majority of Advanced Hygienic
installation works being carried out within healthcare buildings, the company ensures that it works in line with HBN 00-01 design guidance. It also provides its services to the construction, modular build, education, sports, leisure, and hospitality sectors.
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