What to look for when choosing hospital furniture

Furnishing a hospital is a very important process which involves lots of decision making. Architects and contractors need to strike a balance between furniture which is practical and functional, but also comfortable for patients and staff. Furthermore, all healthcare furniture must meet HTM 63 and HTM 71 standards, to ensure that it is suitable for hospital use. To learn more about what to look for when choosing hospital furniture, continue reading.

Reliable supplier

When choosing hospital furniture, it is essential that you find a reliable and trustworthy supplier. Selecting a British manufacturer is always a good idea, firstly as it supports the British economy. A British manufacturer can also provide faster completion times, with no delays due to customs. Also, you can be assured that there will be no delays in manufacturing during these unprecedented times. To make sure infection control is up to standard, you must choose a manufacturer who is HTM 63/HTM 71 compliant. These are official hospital regulations that ensure that furniture is safe and suitable. It is also important to choose a supplier who provides technical CAD and BIM files as this can give you details about the specifics of the furniture. A supplier that offers a wide range of colours and finishes is essential so that you can ensure you select furniture which matches your chosen style scheme.

Selecting furniture

Surfaces and finishes of hospital furniture should be made from specific materials that help with infection control. When choosing base, wall and tall units, matt melamine faced chipboard (MFC) and melamine-faced MDF carcasses are excellent choices. When choosing furniture, it is important to look for items that are both practical but will also look appealing. Key items that every hospital needs are wall units, base unit cabinets and worktops.

Fixtures and equipment

It’s also important not to neglect smaller fixtures and fittings which can be beneficial in hospital settings. Hooks are essential to have in bedrooms and reception areas. Choosing stainless steel hooks means that they will be easy to disinfect, reducing the risk of contamination. Grab rails are also important features of hospital bathrooms, offering help to those who are less able. Other furniture items to consider are mirrors, handles and changing room benches.

Choosing hospital furniture – where to find out more

At David Bailey Furniture Systems, we have have helped architects and contractors design fitted furniture for the hospital and other healthcare environments for over 35 years. Our factory is in Broadstairs, Kent in the UK and we have provided furniture for many NHS hospitals and private hospitals, including Wexham Park, Guy’s & St Thomas’, Great Ormond Street Hospital, Spire Hospitals and University College London Hospital (UCLH), as well as many regional hospitals, GP surgeries and health clinics around England and Wales.

Read case studies about furniture contracts we’ve completed for several hospitals & healthcare facilities throughout the UK.

Check out our Video & Library resources section for colour cards, BIM drawings and other aids for architects and contractors.

If you’re specifying hospital furniture or if you’d like to discuss a healthcare or hospital project, please get in touch.