Healing the mental health & dementia facilities magazine January 2025 How colour can transform healthcare environments SIGNAGE FOR NEURODIVERSITY p18 Inclusive design considerations for disabled and neurodivergent people colour AIR QUALITY p15 The impact of indoor air quality on health
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mhdf magazine 3 The transformative power of colour in healthcare © Dulux Contents 5 News A round-up of the latest news and events in the sector 18 Signage for neurodiversity Annie Pollock, from Edinburgh Access Panel, writes about Inclusive design considerations for disabled and neurodivergent people, and how to comply with the Equalities Act 2010 in relation to disability Editor’s Note January 2025 Designing for neurodiversity Healthcare environments are meant to be spaces for care, comfort and accessibility for all individuals. However, for neurodivergent people, navigating these spaces can often be overwhelming due to sensory sensitivities, cognitive processing challenges and difficulties interpreting signage. Thoughtfully designed signage and the strategic use of colours can play a pivotal role in creating more inclusive and accommodating healthcare settings. Neurodivergent individuals, including those with autism, ADHD, dyslexia and sensory processing disorders, may face unique challenges in understanding and responding to environmental cues. Poorly designed signage with cluttered text, ambiguous symbols or excessive information can heighten anxiety and confusion. Similarly, the wrong choice of colour – such as overly bright or harsh combinations – may trigger sensory discomfort, making an already stressful experience more daunting. To address these concerns, healthcare facilities must adopt the principles of universal design. On page 8, Annie Pollock, from Edinburgh Access Panel, explains how important inclusive design considerations for disabled and neurodivergent people are in healthcare settings, and how environmental design needs to enable rather than disable, allowing us to live, move through and use spaces as easily as possible. The psychology of colour also warrants attention. Calming hues like soft blues, greens and pastels can create a soothing atmosphere, reducing stress for patients and visitors alike. Bright, saturated colours should be used sparingly and strategically to draw attention to important information, such as emergency exits or wayfinding cues. Avoiding patterns or colour combinations that may cause visual overstimulation is equally crucial. On page 12, Dawn Scott, senior colour designer at Dulux Trade, discusses how colour can transform healthcare environments by creating a calming and positive ambiance, and argues that the power of design and colour must not be understated. Furthermore, incorporating input from neurodivergent individuals during the design process is invaluable. Engaging patients, caregivers and advocates ensures that the solutions developed truly meet the needs of the people they aim to serve. Pilot testing signage and environmental designs with neurodivergent users can provide critical insights into what works and what needs improvement. Ultimately, healthcare environments that prioritise accessible signage and thoughtful colour schemes send a powerful message regarding everyone’s comfort and wellbeing. By embracing inclusivity in design, we can create spaces where neurodivergent individuals feel not only accommodated but truly welcome. Helen Adkins Editor [email protected] the mental health & dementia facilities magazine Publishers Stable Publishing Limited SBC House, Restmor Way Wallington, Surrey SM6 7AH, England. t. 020 8288 1080 f. 020 8288 1099 e. [email protected] healthcaredm.co.uk Editor Helen Adkins Production Nicola Cann Design Gemma England Media Sales Manager Barnaby Goodman-Smith Sales Director Julian Walter Managing Director Toby Filby The publishers do not necessarily agree with views expressed by contributors and cannot accept responsibility for claims made by manufacturers and authors, nor do they accept any responsibility for any errors in the subject matter of this publication. 12 The power of design and colour Dawn Scott, senior colour designer at Dulux Trade, discusses how colour can transform healthcare environments by creating a calming and positive ambiance 15 Air quality in healthcare environments Renée Jacobs, healthcare business development manager at Distech Controls, explores the impact of indoor air quality on our wellbeing and health 18 Selecting heat emitters in care homes Spencer Clark from Clyde Radiators looks at the key considerations when selecting heat emitters for care homes 19 Comment: Living walls As the demand for sustainable ‘vertical gardens’ grows, Lee Musgrove of specialist insurance broker Lycetts warns of the risks associated with living walls
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mhdf magazine 5 NEWS Construction partner Stepnell has handed over a £9.4 million care home to residential care provider Cinnamon Care Collection. Marking the fourth project completed between the two firms, Oakley Grange in Bishop’s Tachbrook, Warwickshire, will provide 66 beds and five care suites. The facility will offer care facilities catering for assisted living and specialist dementia care, with a range of features including cinema rooms and private dining, supported by a commercial kitchen. Stepnell has also constructed a dedicated therapy room – the first to be offered in a Cinnamon Care collection facility. Stepnell commenced the build in January 2023 and completed in 73 weeks, handing over to the client for fit out two weeks ahead of schedule. To ensure the project ran smoothly, the firm led on numerous collaborative meetings between stakeholders so that delivery expectations and adjustments could be met. Using its complete construction expertise, Stepnell was able to take advantage of its Step Energy and in-house joinery department, providing energy specialists to install a 70-panel solar array, as well as numerous bespoke fitted furniture items suitable for laterliving requirements. Stepnell was able to utilise a local workforce, providing further development opportunities for a team that was experienced with completing the Bennett Drive Care Home in Hagley for Cinnamon Care Collection in 2022. The team coordinated activities to overcome operational challenges, including delivering with restricted access through the housing estate and ensuring minimal noise disturbances for neighbouring residential properties and schools. ● www.stepnell.co.uk Stepnell hands over Warwick’s Oakley Grange The Meadows, which provides specialist mental health and care services for older people in Stockport, is preparing to complete its 25-year Private Finance Initiative (PFI) contract, believed to be the first successful handover of an expiring Healthcare PFI project in England. Opened in 1999 on the site of the former Offerton Mental Hospital, The Meadows was a pioneering project led by Walker Healthcare in partnership with Stockport NHS Foundation Trust and Pennine Care NHS Foundation Trust. It has provided a mix of healthcare services for the local community, including the provision of specialist mental health, dementia and cognitive impairment services for older people. The facility at The Meadows is purposebuilt and spans approximately 4,500 square meters, providing specialist assessments, treatment, support and care services for older adults and their families. Services range from acute mental health wards to help older people who can no longer be supported or cared for in the community to the memory assessment team which assesses and diagnoses people living with memory conditions. It also offers a community mental health liaison service for people over 65 experiencing mental health problems, plus palliative care in dementia service and step-down care for patients from acute hospital settings. Walker Healthcare, a division of the independent Scottish-based company James Walker Leith Ltd, carried out the redevelopment of The Meadows and manages a portfolio of care homes and hospitals across the UK. Jim McCallum, director of Walker Healthcare, said: ‘This handover marks a significant moment, not just for Walker Healthcare, but as a case study for future public and private sector partnerships. It demonstrates how a private provider can support the NHS in delivering essential care and services through a collaborative, long-term approach.’ ● www.walkerhealthcare.co.uk First completion of positive 25-Year PFI contract
6 mhdf magazine NEWS Ben Stunnel is an autism peer mentor whose lived experience, along with that of others with the condition, helped to influence the design of the new build. He said: ‘It has been very rewarding and confidence-building to have our thoughts and ideas listened to, and it will be very exciting to see the building going up and taking shape knowing that we've contributed so much. I really hope that, in future, many people and families will benefit from what this new building can offer.’ The new Bristol unit will be run by Avon and Wiltshire Mental Health Partnership NHS Trust and complements another similar facility currently under construction in Devon. Laura Ambler, executive lead for Learning Willmott Dixon has been chosen by Bath and North East Somerset, Swindon and Wiltshire Integrated Care Board to build a new £20 million mental health unit in Bristol for people across the northern half of the south west region with a learning disability or autism. It will be able to support up to ten patients at any time, with the building specifically intended for those whose needs cannot be met by existing hospital or community-based services. With completion set for 2025, the unit will help keep people much closer to home and reduce the need for patients to be admitted to facilities far away from their family and friends. Disabilities and Autism, Bath and North East Somerset, Swindon and Wiltshire Integrated Care Board, said: ‘When fully open in 2025, this site will be a fantastic addition to our existing mental health services, and I know from speaking with local people that having something like this based in our region will make an enormous difference to those who may have otherwise needed to have travelled significant distances for the right care and treatment.’ Willmott Dixon was procured under the P23 framework, and is working with Ryder Architecture, Edmond Shipway & Partners and Hydrock Consultants as part of its wider team. ● www.willmottdixon.co.uk Willmott Dixon to deliver new mental health unit in Bristol Glazing specialist Britplas has announced that the company’s owners have transferred their equity to an Employee Ownership Trust (EOT), marking a shift in its ownership structure and a significant milestone in its journey towards sustainable growth and employee empowerment. An Employee Ownership Trust is a legal entity that holds a stake in a company on behalf of its employees. Owners Kevin Gorman and John Blackwell have transferred 100% of their equity in Britplas companies to its EOT. Britplas, whose head office and manufacturing facility are located in Warrington, is renowned for its groundbreaking Safevent anti-ligature window which was specially developed for use in mental health environments. Established since 2004, Britplas has earned numerous accolades over the past two decades and seen expansion in the UK and international markets, now boasting a group turnover of more than £30 million. Gorman and Blackwell will continue to lead the business with the same management team, ensuring continuity of service and commitment to the company’s vision and values. Blackwell, group managing director, said: ‘The move to an EOT model is a hugely positive step for Britplas and its employees, which now stand at over 100. I am immensely proud of what our team has achieved, and we are already seeing that, by further empowering our employees as stakeholders in the business, we are helping to promote a strong sense of shared purpose and responsibility which will create a platform for further growth.’ ● www.britplas.com Britplas is officially employee owned
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8 mhdf magazine INCLUSIVE DESIGN disabled and neurodivergent people Inclusive design is an essential aspect of creating healthcare environments that cater to the needs of all individuals, particularly disabled and neurodivergent people. In compliance with the Equality Act 2010, which mandates reasonable adjustments for people with disabilities, healthcare providers must adopt an inclusive approach to ensure equal access and a positive experience for everyone. The act requires organisations to make ‘reasonable adjustments’ for disabled individuals, which includes: • Proactively identifying barriers to access and addressing them Environmental design needs to enable rather than disable, allowing us to live, move through and use spaces as easily as possible – and to comply with the Equalities Act 2010. Annie Pollock, hon secretary on the Edinburgh Access Panel, explains more • Consulting with disabled and neurodivergent people to inform design choices • Regularly reviewing and updating facilities to ensure continued compliance According to the Construction Industry Council (CIC) in its Teaching and Learning Briefing Guide (2017)1, inclusive buildings, places and spaces are built with the ‘access needs for all in mind, where disabled people can then retain their independence, contribute fully to society and the economy, and live fulfilling lives’. Sadly, however, we still find poor design in many settings, including healthcare facilities – where noise, visual confusion and lack of access to fresh air can affect people adversely – so it’s important for commissioners, designers, carers and providers of care facilities to try and put themselves ‘in the shoes of others’ to understand what being physically disabled and/or neurodivergent actually means. UNDERSTANDING THE NEEDS OF DISABLED AND NEURODIVERGENT INDIVIDUALS Disability in its broadest meaning is defined in the Equalities Act 2010 as ‘a physical or mental impairment that has a substantial and long-term adverse effect on the ability to carry out normal day-to-day activities. These include sensory impairments affecting sight or hearing, progressive impairments such as dementia, and mental health conditions and learning difficulties’. Neurodiversity recognises the variety in the ways we speak, think, move, act and communicate and is defined by the Design for the Mind – Neurodiversity and the Built Environment guide2 as someone who fits outside majority neurological profiles and is commonly associated with autism, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, dyslexia, dyspraxia, dyscalculia, dysgraphia and Tourette’s syndrome – there is no definitive list of conditions associated with neurodivergence. Some medical conditions can also result in neurodivergent conditions, including Design considerations for Random paving outside a neurology clinic, which could cause difficulties to those crossing Some of the illustrations from creative agency StudioLR’s booklet on signage for people with dementia
mhdf magazine 9 INCLUSIVE DESIGN THE IRIS MURDOCH BUILDING Designed by BPA architects, the Iris Murdoch Building (pictured below) houses the Dementia Services Development Centre (DSDC) at the University of Stirling. Its form demonstrates good design for dementia in public buildings – minimising confusion, maximising transparency, aiding identification, reducing reliance on memory and providing memory triggers. It showcases relaxed and open design principles for daily living which helps people with dementia (and indeed those with other aspects of neurodivergence) in their day-to-day lives. The building contains both open plan and office space, some residential accommodation for visiting academics and seminar spaces. There are good wayfinding features and a garden, which is an easily navigated haven of peace with attractive views. It was key in highlighting the specific design principles for people with dementia and other disabilities. Multiple Sclerosis, Parkinson’s and Dementia. However, many people, including those to whom no diagnosis has been given, may suffer adversely from problems arising around sounds and visual ‘noise’, as well as environmental spatial and layout issues, and/or smell, taste and temperature concerns. Incorporating feedback from disabled and neurodivergent individuals in the design process is therefore critical. Co-design ensures the solutions are practical, relevant and aligned with user needs. Conducting focus groups, surveys and pilot testing can help refine ideas and foster a sense of inclusivity and respect. In Scotland, Access Panels consist of groups of volunteers who work to improve access and inclusion for disabled people in their local community. These people will also advise on planning applications, and give advice in respect of disabilities and ease of access. Sadly, Access Panels in the rest of the UK do not exist. KEY CONSIDERATIONS FOR INCLUSIVE HEALTHCARE DESIGN Inclusive healthcare design begins with recognising the diverse needs of disabled and neurodivergent individuals. This includes physical, sensory, cognitive and emotional requirements. For example: • Physical disabilities may require accessible entrances, examination tables and restrooms, as well as ramps, elevators and automatic doors • Sensory sensitivities (e.g. for autistic individuals) necessitate careful consideration of lighting, sound and tactile elements • Cognitive differences (e.g. for people with ADHD or learning disabilities) benefit from clear signage and simplified navigation • Emotional needs may involve designing calming spaces to reduce anxiety COLOUR AND CONTRAST Hospitals and mental healthcare facilities generally rely on colour for wayfinding and area definition. However, a research paper from The University of Edinburgh3 >> The Iris Murdoch Building houses the Dementia Services Development Centre
10 mhdf magazine INCLUSIVE DESIGN FURTHER READING 1.www.cic.org.uk/projects/teaching-andlearning-briefing-guide 2.www.bsigroup.com/en-GB/insightsand-media/insights/brochures/pas-6463design-for-the-mind-neurodiversity-andthe-built-environment 3.www.pure.ed.ac.uk/ws/portalfiles/ portal/193616021/Final_Paper_ Healthcare_col.22570.pdf 4.www.eea.europa.eu/articles/noisepollution-is-a-major#:~:text=Looking%20 at%20the%20current%20data,well%20 as%2012%2C000%20premature%20 deaths noted that wayfinding frequently tended to be followed in a dogmatic, risk-averse manner, and predominately without professional design input, leading to monotonous and under-stimulating environments. That said, strong patterns can also be confusing for many people – especially for someone with dementia or autism. Colour associations and meanings can be social and cultural, and this must be recognised with a good understanding of those using a building. For many people, ‘Incorporating feedback from disabled and neurodivergent individuals in the design process is critical’ including those with impaired sight, blindness or colour blindness, contrast rather than colour is key for wayfinding, as is good lighting. Wayfinding is also helped by having good, clear, straightforward signage with a graphic, and landmarks that one can identify with and remember along a route, and alongside or instead of text. Signage needs to be clear, with easy to read fonts and, where appropriate, a graphic to help those who are unable understand, whether as a visitor from abroad, someone who has impaired sight or is dyslexic. Funded by the Life Changes Trust, a new ‘Any Disability’ symbol has been designed by StudioLR, to encourage awareness of people with invisible disabilities. LIGHT, NOISE AND SURFACES Poorly considered lighting can cause shadows on reflective surfaces and create confusing visual environments. Where surfaces are very reflective, glare and shiny surfaces can dazzle, causing visual disturbances. Surfacing is another important consideration, as it can cause visual problems for people with impaired sight, cognitive impairments and some people with autism. Indoors and exterior surfaces in healthcare environments should be smooth, non-slip, non-reflective and ‘easy on the eye’. Exterior random paving patterns can also cause difficulties so should be avoided. Exposure to noise is one of the greatest causes of early death, and something that needs to be addressed as far as possible by design. Many hospitals can be particularly noisy to the detriment of their patients. According to European Environment Agency (EEA)4, one million healthy years of life are lost every year due to the effects of noise on health, including annoyance, sleep disturbance and ischaemic heart disease. There is so much more that could be discussed about inclusive design and neurodivergence, but hopefully with the references provided, this short feature will help all involved in care for people with disabilities and those who are neurodivergent. ● University common room, which appears 3-dimentional and could prove quite hazardous for those who are disabled or neurodivergent. A ‘barrier-free’ entrance to a public building – the pattern of red and white stripes, a blackbar, a silver drainage grid and a contrasting external surface could create ‘visual noise’ for many people There’s nothing wrong with some artistic license, as long as the aim of clear messaging and direction-finding is maintained
12 mhdf magazine INTERIORS The importance of colour anddesign The power of design and colour must not be understated, as it can have a significant effect on building occupants. Dawn Scott, senior colour designer at Dulux Trade, discusses how colour can transform healthcare environments by creating a calming and positive ambiance The colours we are exposed to daily play a profound role in shaping our emotions. For designers, balancing aesthetic appeal with the functional and psychological needs of patients, visitors and staff is therefore crucial. They must also ensure that designs adhere to regulations and the unique requirements of healthcare spaces. In healthcare settings, the wellbeing of patients, staff and visitors is of utmost importance, which means that spaces should be designed empathetically. When done correctly, patients can feel more at ease, visitors can be comforted, and staff can feel energised and ready to take on the day. To evoke the right emotions in each space, designers need to think carefully about colour choice. USING NATURE INSPIRED COLOURS Using nature-inspired colours or featuring natural elements like plants, water and light is known as biophilic design. Stemming from ‘biophilia’, the fundamental human magnetism for nature, biophilic design uses the built environment to connect people to nature. As well as supporting psychological wellbeing, biophilic design can inspire physical health through better air quality, improved ventilation and exposure to natural light, which can reduce headaches, eye strain and respiratory issues in indoor spaces. In addition to natural light, incorporating views of nature and integrating greenery, biophilic design can also be achieved through colour choice. When choosing nature-inspired colours, many will turn to blues and greens. However, all colours are found in nature, which means schemes can incorporate a wide range of tones. For example, to create an inviting environment, it is important to move away from colder, more clinical shades. Instead, it is recommended to inject warmth and comfort into spaces by using soft, earthy tones like green, brown or pink. However, some areas like staff rooms, therapy spaces or children’s wards may call for more vibrancy. Yellow can serve as a striking statement colour or be used as a complementary accent hue to promote an uplifting sense of optimism, serenity and tranquillity. Tones like the Dulux Colour of the Year 2025, True Joy™, could therefore be considered. To help healthcare managers and designers find shades to complement
mhdf magazine 13 INTERIORS True Joy™ and cater to a diverse range of patient experiences, Dulux has developed three Colour FuturesTM palettes: • Bold Colour Story: Inspired by the thrill of adventure, these bold colours bring spontaneity and energy to any space. Bright blues and oranges contrast beautifully with accent yellow, making them ideal for environments like children’s wards and therapy areas where positivity is key. • Human Colour Story: Celebrating artisanry, these shades of wood and clay reflect the raw materials used in handmade processes. These colours add a touch of authenticity, calm and warmth to staff rooms and hospital wards. • Proud Colour Story: Drawing inspiration from diverse cultures around the world, these deep, rich, and earthy browns and greens celebrate the rich heritages that make us unique. They create a welcoming atmosphere where everyone feels at home and are ideal for entrances and waiting areas. USING COLOUR FOR INCLUSIVITY As well as the emotional response evoked by each colour, it is also important to think about their placement. Everyone uses critical surfaces (walls, floors, ceilings and doors) to gauge the dimensions of a space and key features like entrances and exits – and this is especially true for those with visual impairments. It is therefore crucial that these elements are clearly identifiable, and this can be achieved using contrasting colours. Building Regulations Approved Document M, vol.2 and the British Code of Practice: BS8300-2:2018, which align with the Equality Act 2010, recommend that a minimum visual contrast of 30 Light Reflectance Value (LRV) points is used for critical surfaces like walls, floors, ceilings and doors. ‘Yellow can serve as a striking statement colour or be used as a complementary accent hue to promote an uplifting sense of optimism, serenity and tranquillity’ For example, painting doors and door frames in contrasting colours to the main walls makes them easier to locate. It is also recommended to use contrasting colours on each floor of a building or to identify different departments, to ensure people can navigate more easily. CHOOSING THE RIGHT PAINTS FOR THE PROJECT In addition to colour, it is also important to think about the type of paint needed for each area and how the products chosen can support improved wellbeing. To help with the application and drying processes, paints and coatings contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs). These chemical vapours are found in higher quantities in solvent-based paints and are released into the air as the product is used. However, they also contribute to the formation of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere and add to ground level pollution and global warming. Prolonged exposure can also negatively impact people’s health. It is therefore important to use low VOC, water-based paints that are durable, 99.9% VOC free, and compliant with BREEAM and LEED certifications. In some spaces, specialist water-based paints may be required. For example, Dulux Trade Sterishield contains an in-film bactericide that inhibits bacteria and reduces populations of MRSA and E. coli, making it ideal for hospital wards where hygiene is of utmost importance. In conclusion, healthcare designers and managers must carefully consider the colours and paint products they use in their buildings. Utilising the right colours and incorporating biophilic design can improve occupant wellbeing and make spaces functional, inclusive and aesthetically pleasing. ● www.duluxtradepaintexpert.co.uk/en/ services/architects-specifiers Dulux Proud Colour Story True Joy Colour Palette Dulux True JoyTM
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mhdf magazine 15 AIR QUALITY Prioritising air quality in healthcare facilities We breathe, on average, 12 times per minute, 720 times per hour and 17,280 times a day, but how do we know our healthcare buildings are safe and healthy when it comes to air quality? Renée Jacobs, CHFM, CHC, FASHE, and healthcare business development manager at Distech Controls, explains We hear a lot about air quality and its undoubted impact on our wellbeing and health. However, when we dig a little bit more, we find that people are usually referring to outdoor air quality. The general perception is that we are exposed to outdoor pollution but once we are inside in the building, we are protected. A study carried out by French consulting company ENABLE found that 52% of French, 60% of Belgian and 62% of Shanghai residents were surprised to learn that we are exposed to more air pollution inside buildings than we are outdoors. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), indoor air quality is up to five times more polluted than outdoors. Healthcare settings are complex spaces that are constantly in use and have various requirements. However, indoor and outdoor pollutants can both have significant impact the environments. Analysis from City Hall, London, created in 2022, found that, despite improvements in air quality, every hospital, medical centre and care home in the capital is ‘In hospitals and healthcare environments, air quality has been found to have a profound impact on patient health’ in a location that breaches the World Health Organisation’s (WHO) guidelines for nitrogen dioxide (NO2) and fine particulate matter (PM2.5). The data showed that while 91% of hospitals and medical centres meet the legal limits set by the UK, they do not meet the stricter WHO guidelines for NO2, and all hospitals and medical centres fail for PM2.5. This reflects a 2018 study by the British Lung Foundation, which found that 2,220 GP practices and 248 hospitals in England were in areas where outdoor PM2.5 concentrations exceeded WHO’s recommended average annual levels of 10 µg/m3 (in 2021 WHO revised the guideline value for PM2.5 down to 5 μg/m3). In hospitals and healthcare environments, air quality has been found to have a profound impact on patient health. One physician, Dr Stephanie Taylor, has undertaken years of research after realising that her patients in Boston hospitals were getting new infections despite extensive surface hygiene efforts, while her patients in a simple hospital in Papua New Guinea with less resources were not. What was the reason? This is where Dr Taylor began to extend her research into how building architecture and air quality can have an effect on patients. In 2020, Dr Taylor co-founded Building4Health (B4H) to create a building-performance metric using occupant health data to become ‘the most important next advance in improving public health’. The B4H mission is to lead the transformation of indoor air quality management through our medically based, data-driven approach for better health and efficiency. In a number of scientific studies conducted over the years, it has been found that the ideal indoor humidity level of between 40-60%RH will reduce the spread of respiratory infections. In the US, ASHRAE published >>
16 mhdf magazine AIR QUALITY Standard 241, which has been developed to reduce the risk of infectious aerosol transmission in buildings. Standard 241 establishes minimum requirements to reduce the risk of airborne disease transmission and other pathogens in buildings like single and multi-family homes, offices, schools and healthcare facilities. The standard applies to new and existing building and sets requirements for equivalent clean airflow rate target per occupant of pathogen free air flow, reducing the risk of infection. HOW CAN A BUILDING MANAGEMENT SYSTEM (BMS) HELP? More than ever, having a fully functional BMS to ensure wellbeing in nonresidential buildings is critical. An outdated, non-functioning or inefficient system can have serious consequences for the health of patients and staff by facilitating the transmission of viruses and bacteria. In all aspects of our lives, we expect the spaces we occupy to be healthy and trustworthy so that we can grow, learn, work and consume with peace of mind. Occupants want to know that the building they are entering is safe, that measures have been taken to reduce the spread of infection, that the space is clean, that they will be alerted to any problems and that they can have control over their own environment. This is particularly important in a healthcare environment where patients might already feel vulnerable. The measures can be classified into the two following solution types – proactive solutions that reduce the risk of contagion and reactive solutions that advance optimal risk management. In the first instance, there are a number of proactive measures that we can put in place to make our buildings safer. These include managing indoor air quality, detecting occupied spaces and providing contactless comfort management. WELLBEING IS A PRIORITY Patients and staff need to be central to how the building operates and humancentric solutions, such as the AI-powered Resense Move, are designed to enhance the comfort of people visiting, recovering and working in the building. As an example, in a hospital, where bed space is at a premium and there is a constant stream of visitors, it’s important to know who is using a space and when. Resense Move will count the number of people in a space and provide a proactive solution which immediately renews the airflow in the building according to the occupancy levels, unlike a standard CO2 sensor which needs to be sent a command. The integrated visual LED indicator on Resense Move provides reliable information about the space, letting occupants know if there is a problem with the air quality such as a build-up of CO2 or VOCs. As a multi-sensor, Resense Move also has the capability to monitor dB levels (noise), which can be important in healthcare settings. For instance, dB readings could be taken at a nursing station within a neonatal intensive care unit, which is adjacent to construction activities to monitor and address noise levels that may have an impact on patient outcomes, such as an infant’s heart rate and blood pressure. The solution that Resense Move offers will aid indoor air quality, save energy and enhance the day-to-day operations in a building. It can also be installed in a new construction or renovation. When we enter a healthcare environment, we want to know that the air we breathe is as safe as possible. Building owners and facility managers have a duty to provide occupants with a comfortable environment, but they are also required to ensure their buildings meet sustainability target and energy efficiencies. With new sensor solutions we can provide humancentric buildings without compromising on energy efficiency. ● www.distech-controls.com/en-gb/ The AI-powered Resense Move
STOP Commissioning new build “Indicative” Designs !! Richard Maycock IEng. MIHEEM Authorising Engineer (MGPS) Mob: 07539 076664 [email protected] Jake Ebeling MIHEEM Medical Training Consultant (MGPS) Mob: 07904 945797 [email protected] David Cooper MIHEEM Medical Design Engineer (MGPS) Mob: 07496 852662 [email protected] Yvonne Hobson Development & Training Coordinator Mob: 07904 867107 [email protected] www.mesystems.co.uk| [email protected] Commission an Actual Design Specialist : MES Ltd • Advice to Architect for plant locations, principal MGPS items, from the off • Compliant MGPS Proposed Plan Design Drawings overlaid on your drawings • MGPS Flow & PressureDrop Calculations • Plant not oversized and sizes specified • One review and sign off for all parties • No guessing - No arguments • Competitive quotes from installers • Uncompromised systems no delays Richard D Maycock MIHEEM Medical Design & Training Engineer (MGPS) Mob: 07498 279578 [email protected] Brian Armstrong MIHEEM Associate Medical Gas Consultant (MGPS) Mob: 07402 387171 [email protected] This is not right : Break the cycle… • Generalist Consulting • Indicative design – Push the actual design to the end of the contract • Endless review cycles and discussion • Arguments about compliance • Additional design costs • Unhappy clients • Varying quotes from installers • Construction clashes due to changes • Delays… increasing costs… Penalties… MES Ltd providing specialist Medical Gas System Designs & Consultancy
Choosing safe and efficient Spencer Clark, specification sales manager at Clyde Radiators, looks at the key considerations when selecting heat emitters for healthcare facilities and explains why low surface temperature (LST) radiators are the ideal solution When specifying heat emitters for hospitals and care homes, energy efficiency must be achieved while ensuring comfort and safety. One of the most fundamental considerations is managing the surface temperature to prevent injury. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) document Managing the risks from hot water and surfaces in health and social care, which NHS guidance points to, states that the surface temperature must not exceed 43ºC. This is to prevent the risk of burns if someone fell against the emitter and was not able to move away. This can be achieved using standard radiators by installing low surface temperature covers to prevent contact with the hot surface. However, this also stops the radiator functioning as designed and therefore reduces the heat emitted by as much as 60%. This will clearly impact the efficiency of the system and increase the energy used as a result. A VIABLE ALTERNATIVE An alternative to this is LST radiators. These operate on the same water-based (hydronic) heating system as conventional radiators, but use a convector to quickly and efficiently heat the space. As it does not rely on radiant heat, the convector can be safely housed within a casing without a loss of efficiency and means the surface remains below the required 43ºC. To enhance safety further, there are LST models available that have rounded edges and corners to minimise the risk of injury if someone fell against it. Control of the heating is also an important factor, both from an energy efficiency and comfort perspective. With a lower water content compared with a steel panel radiator, the LST can heat up quicker ‘When specifying heat emitters for hospitals and care homes, energy efficiency must be achieved while ensuring comfort and safety’ and be more responsive. To prevent overheating, which can be a serious hazard for medically vulnerable people, it is advisable to install thermostatic radiator valves (TRV) to automatically control the output of each emitter based on the temperature of the room. Similar to LST radiators, there are also trench heating solutions where the convector is installed beneath a grille in the floor. This is an excellent solution where wall space is limited or greater flexibility in terms of how the space is used is desired. These low water content emitters offer the same burn risk safety as LST radiators as the convector is situated far enough below the floor surface to prevent contact. As with any heat emitter, not all LST radiators and trench heating solutions offer the same features, options and level of performance. When specifying the product, it is important to look carefully at the design and technical data to ensure the most suitable product is selected. For example, the Clyde Centurion and Sentry LST radiators feature a convector that has been engineered for a large surface area to maximise heat output. The need to ensure safety alongside energy efficiency means that not all heat emitter options are suitable for healthcare environments. LST radiators can meet both requirements and with no alterations to the system needed where they are retrofitted into an existing installation. ● www.clyderadiators.co.uk 18 mhdf magazine heat emitters UTILITIES
Lee Musgrove, specialist insurance broker at Lycetts, issues a warning for architects to assess the risks associated with living walls ‘Living walls and green roofs offer numerous environmental, aesthetic and health benefits but the ongoing maintenance and repair can be a challenging and costly process’ With the increasing integration of green roofs and living walls in modern architectural designs, there is a pressing need to address the fire risks linked to the materials used in these on-trend systems. While we wholeheartedly support the move towards sustainable buildings that contribute to net zero targets, it’s crucial that safety is not compromised in the process. All cladding systems feature a backing wall with insulation. Even when cavity barriers are installed correctly, some components might still be combustible, posing a risk of fires spreading. To mitigate this, it’s essential that the backing wall, insulation and supporting structures – including potting, irrigation and drainage systems – are constructed from noncombustible materials wherever possible. The impact of severe weather events and potential water leaks can also significantly affect the safety and insurability of the building, as well as adjacent structures, if the living wall is not meticulously designed, installed and maintained. UNIQUE CHALLENGES OF GREEN ROOFS Unlike conventional roofs, green roofs are considerably heavier due to the additional weight of the support structure and the requisite irrigation systems, as well as the plants themselves. Plus, the extra water retention capacity during heavy rainfall must also be factored into architectural considerations. To ensure the longevity and safety of these sustainable features, installers should conduct extreme water tests immediately after installation to check for leaks and consider installing electronic leak detectors. Annual inspections are also advised to remove problematic plants and those developing strong, deep roots to reduce the risk of leak damage. Furthermore, architects should engage a qualified structural engineer during the design phase to assess load-bearing capacity and ensure the building is fit to support these installations. Fall protection measures and access for ongoing maintenance should also be planned into the design to ensure safe upkeep. Living walls and green roofs offer numerous environmental, aesthetic and health benefits but the ongoing maintenance and repair can be a challenging and costly process. I would urge all architects involved in a new sustainability project or retrofit that incorporates a living wall to consult their insurer during the planning stages to mitigate the risks and ensure the creation of buildings that are not only stunning and sustainable but also safe. ● www.lycetts.co.uk The risks of living walls COMMENT mhdf magazine 19
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