Furniture
challenging to clean thoroughly. If cleaning staff cannot access and sanitise these areas effectively, the risk of microbial buildup increases.
The line where two fabrics meet can be a potential danger zone when creating a piece of furniture built for cleanliness. If traditional stitching is used, bacteria and dirt can be trapped between the gaps, and as these areas are so small, they can be tricky to clean. However, a welded seam on the back and seat cushions, where possible, can reduce the risk of ingress of fluids and harbouring of dirt and bacteria is diminished. Even with waterproof upholstery,
traditional sofa and chair designs with seat and back cushions can be very difficult to clean thoroughly due to gaps and voids between surfaces. The solution we employ is the ‘hygiene
gap’. This term refers to the spaces or gaps in furniture design where dirt can accumulate and evade any cleaning efforts. This feature ensures there is a gap between the seat cushion and the chair back, to avoid dirt becoming trapped in small folds of fabric or the padding of the seat. Allowing for this additional space makes the furniture easier to clean to ensure that chairs are thoroughly sanitised on a regular basis. Easy-to-clean surfaces not only contribute to infection prevention but also enhance the overall longevity and aesthetics of the furniture. In care home settings, choosing furniture with clever designs to help enhance cleaning procedures can significantly contribute to providing a safer environment for residents, staff, and visitors.
How else can infections be controlled? In these environments, infection prevention must extend beyond the clinical realm and encompass all aspects of the facility. Strict cleaning guidelines ensure that a safe and healthy environment is maintained at all times. The cleaning of
Furniture to create an environment that would allow residents to feel not only comfortable, but completely relaxed. Identifying the best pieces to evoke this homely feeling, we provided all the furniture to ensure that every room had seating which promoted a calm and comforting feel.
The 83-room building features private areas for residents to recharge and relax, as well as dining and communal areas. The state-of-the-art facility is complete with breakout areas on each floor, providing an open space for residents to socialise. Alex decided to furnish the space with our versatile Cubitt club chairs, and Harvey pedestal tables, offering residents a space to enjoy a coffee with friends, read, or work on a project or hobby.
floors, hard surfaces, and touchpoints including handles and equipment should be carried out thoroughly and frequently. Cleaning surfaces and objects removes any dirt, debris, and microorganisms that can harbour dangerous pathogens. Through the implementation of a strict cleaning procedure, the risk of transmission is significantly reduced. Pathogens can be transferred from surfaces to hands, and then to mucous membranes (including eyes, mouth, and nose), which can lead to infections. Regular cleaning breaks this chain of transmission, making it less likely for people to come into contact with the bacteria. To ensure that regular cleaning
effectively prevents infections from spreading, it is important to follow best practices, which include the following: n Use high-grade cleaning agents and disinfectants suitable for the surface type and pathogen.
n Ensure surfaces are free of any matter before disinfection, as this can affect the effectiveness of the disinfectant.
n Provide correct training to cleaning staff, including visual aids and extensive guidelines.
n Regularly review and update cleaning procedures and protocol depending on current health and safety guidelines.
Case study - Potters Court We were delighted to be approached to supply products for one the largest care homes in Southampton – Potters Court, which was completed in 2021. Alex Salway of Daring Designs was
appointed as the designer for this project and worked alongside Knightsbridge
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Potters Court also features a main lounge area – a large, flexible space with a mix of seating, ranging in styles and sizes, instantly inviting residents and guests in with an elegant feel. The entrance to the residents’ block was furnished with swivel chairs featuring bespoke safety modifications for Potters Court, useful for disabled residents with limited mobility. Throughout the home, it was agreed a
neutral colour palette would work best, with toned down hues featuring a splash of neon. Giving the building a mature, premium feel, the neon hints offer a fun twist here and there to put a smile on the face of its residents and staff. By incorporating our range designed for care homes, the risk of infection has been significantly diminished and the health and safety of residents, staff and visitors is now a number one priority.
Other measures
What other measures can be taken to reduce the spread of infection in care homes? There are many other ways to maintain healthy, infection-free surroundings in care homes through effective control measures, including:
Education and awareness Raising awareness amongst residents, staff, and visitors about infection control practices is essential. Ongoing training sessions for staff will ensure that infection control practices are up-to-date and effectively implemented.
The teaching of proper etiquette, such
as covering coughs and sneezes, excellent hygiene, and avoiding close contact with others when you are feeling unwell, can
www.thecarehomeenvironment.com May 2024
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