When it comes to healthcare environments, every detail matters.
A key concern for patients and staff alike is maintaining a sterile environment, and one of the areas that are prone to receiving a large amount of contact are counters and worktops.
Here at Solid Surfacing Company, we work closely with the healthcare industry for this very reason, as we know there is one material that is a necessity in these situations.
Enter solid surface, a man-made material that offers unmatched benefits in terms of cleanliness, maintenance, and design flexibility.
In the healthcare sphere, the choice of material is not just about aesthetics; it's a critical decision affecting hygiene, safety, maintenance and overall patient care, and we’ve written this blog to tell you why solid surfaces fit the bill perfectly.
Let’s take a look.
Let’s start with a quick look at just what we mean when we say solid surface materials.
As mentioned above, this is a man-made material, created using a combination of acrylic polymer, minerals and other natural elements.
One of the key identifying trademarks of solid surface is seamless joins. No visible joints or breaks in the flow of the material. You can run your hand over a join and you cannot feel it, or mostly, even see it.
Another, is moulded sinks. This is achievable for the same reason as above; seamless joins. The material is strong enough to be used as a sink aswell as a worktop, so when you see a worktop flowing into a moulded sink, you know you’re looking at solid surface.
These a just two of many benefits, and we work closely with leading suppliers such as Corian and Hi-Macs to always offer the best value and quality available.
Solid surface has emerged as a front-runner when it comes to worktops, reception counters, surgeries and more, and there are several key reasons why this is the case. These benefits relate to a healthcare setting closely, making it the ideal solution to the complex needs of these environments:
Now you know why this material is ideal for a healthcare environment, let’s take a look at some of the ways you can use it.
A healthcare property should always feel welcoming and, more importantly, clean.
The reception area sets the tone for a patient's visit. This is the first place they visit, and often where they may spend a large portion of time as they wait for appointments.
Solid surface reception counters offer a sleek and inviting appearance which is always sure to leave a strong first impression.
Not only that, but they can withstand the high traffic in these areas. As multiple patients come and go, often signing forms and handling payments, this area sees a lot of action, so you need a solution that can handle it.
Their non-porous surface ensures they remain hygienic with minimal maintenance, embodying professionalism and care from the first point of contact.
For staff, desks and workstations are where they spend most of their time.
With workstations especially, there may be substances and spillages that need to be cleaned, and solid surface is ideal for this, providing efficient cleaning with ease.
Solid surface materials not only promote a germ-free working environment but also can be customised for ergonomic designs that fit various spaces and uses, enhancing staff comfort and efficiency.
Your desks and reception counters can always be on brand, comfortable, and looking in their best shape, and please refer to the images in this article that show an example of backlighting and personalisation.
In healthcare washrooms, hygiene is a top priority.
Having a material that is easy to clean, vandal-proof, and durable is essential to always keeping a lid on germs and other harmful bacteria that can spread in a washroom.
Solid surfaces provide water resistance, crucial for areas constantly exposed to moisture, and significantly reduce the risk of mould and mildew development.
This not only helps keep washrooms feeling cleaner but also makes sure they don’t look unsightly. The appearance of mould is a sign of uncleanliness, and this can be off-putting for visitors.
A washroom shouldn’t be neglected when it comes to functionality, appearance, and cleanliness, and solid surface materials provide the perfect material to do this.
The use of solid surface materials in patient rooms—for bedside tables, window sills, and other furnishings—minimises the risk of infection, contributing to a cleaner, more controlled environment.
This aspect is crucial for patient recovery, where cleanliness can directly impact health outcomes.
Not only that but providing an aesthetically pleasing room can have a positive effect on patient recovery.
Solid surface is easy to maintain, and therefore often looks clean and inviting. This can help to reassure a patient they are in a safe and controlled environment.
Sterility is non-negotiable in operating rooms and labs.
The seamless integration possibilities of solid surfaces for sinks and counters mean there are no joints or gaps where bacteria can proliferate, meeting the stringent hygiene standards required in these critical areas.
This is the most critical consideration when it comes to these rooms, and no expense should be spared in making sure the materials chosen are proficient at keeping surfaces sterile and clean.
While solid surface materials boast durability and ease of maintenance, proper installation and care are key to maximising these benefits.
When installing, ensure that all seams are correctly bonded to maintain the surface's non-porous nature.
Of course, if you want to be sure the right job is done, it is always a good idea to consult with professionals, such as the team at Solid Surfacing Company, who have years of experience working with this material and installing it across various healthcare environments.
For maintenance, regular cleaning with non-abrasive cleaners is sufficient to keep the surfaces in pristine condition.
One of the standout features of solid surface materials is their repairability; minor scratches or damages can often be buffed out, making them a cost-effective choice for healthcare facilities.
The choice of materials for healthcare worktops and counters goes beyond aesthetics, touching on critical aspects of hygiene, safety, and patient care.
Solid surface materials stand out as an ideal choice, offering a blend of functionality, durability, and design flexibility that meets the unique demands of healthcare environments.
From reception areas to patient rooms and beyond, their application promises not only to enhance the cleanliness and safety of these spaces but also to contribute to a more welcoming and comforting atmosphere for patients and staff.
Here at Solid Surfacing Company, we love working with this material (it’s even in our name) so if you would like to know more, then get in touch with our team today.