Feature
could give facility managers an edge in the fight against infection, especially in healthcare facilities, such as hospitals for example, where footfall is high and the need to maintain strict sterile environments already exists.
“For added protection against bacteria, facilities can implement tailored anti-microbial hardware and finishes. Anti-microbial coatings applied to door handles are precisely formulated to prevent bacteria build-up upon the surface by interrupting cell multiplication. Some door seal solutions also make use of modern anti-bacterial technology, embedding it within the aluminium and silicone of the door seal during production, further reducing the spread of bacteria in high traffic areas.”
The Care Quality Commission7 (CQC) sets a regulation that
cleanliness and effective infection control is a necessity for care and hospital locations. As well as best practice methods, healthcare environments are encouraged to introduce innovative infection control methods where possible. Similarly, under The Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 19928
,
decision makers have an active duty to keep inhabitants safe and their environments clean. And aside from the use of antimicrobial solutions, many are challenged to provide hygienically maintained environments without sacrificing fire or safety standards.
Daniel adds: “Facilities with high footfall must also consider ventilation
and ease of movement. Whether in healthcare,
commercial or public environments, both are key elements of efficient building management and when done effectively, can further help inhibit the spread of infection by ensuring fresh air is consistently making its way through halls and rooms.
“Ultimately, when paired with regular cleaning practices, these modern solutions can play an assist role in the fight against infection, helping to maintain building hygiene as well as the obligatory standards associated with building and fire safety.”
1:
http://www.bccdc.ca/health-info/prevention-public-health/hand-hygiene 2:
https://www.knowingmore.com/2019/10/15/its-global-handwashing-day/
3:
https://www.cbsnews.com/news/one-germy-doorknob-can-infect-half-your-office-within-hours/ 4:
https://www.webmd.com/lung/how-long-covid-19-lives-on-surfaces 5:
https://www.insider.com/how-long-do-flu-germs-live
6:
https://www.gov.uk/government/news/new-campaign-to-prevent- spread-of-coronavirus-indoors-this-winter
7:
https://www.cqc.org.uk/publications/major-reports/infection-prevention-control 8:
https://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/books/l24.htm
“The most effective way to improve ventilation throughout a building is by opening its windows and doors. This creates an inlet for fresh air and an outlet for the old air, and with access points open, minimises the need to touch door handles. Yet, when focusing on airflow, it’s inopportune to disregard fire safety. Too many times, we’ve seen facilities fall foul of leaving fire doors propped open in favour of improving ventilation and ease of access - but simply put, it’s illegal to do so and leaves fire doors wholly ineffective in a fire situation.
“Modern exit systems are purpose built to ensure fire doors can be left open safely and securely. Automatic door controls make use of sensors which activate the operator devices connected to the main access doors. In turn, this aids access and egress when required and closes the doors shut when necessary. In the event of a fire, the alarm is sounded, and the doors close automatically - ensuring safety is never compromised. What’s more, these systems can be integrated with the external building security, reducing risk on all fronts.
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