Bristol Royal Infirmary (BRI) is a large teaching hospital in the centre of Bristol, England. It has links with the nearby University of Bristol and the Faculty of Health and Social Care at the University of the West of England, also in Bristol. The BRI is one of nine hospitals operated by the University Hospitals Bristol and Weston NHS Foundation Trust.

Most healthcare facilities including the Bristol Royal Infirmary see the importance of hardwearing interior finishes and how crucial they are when it comes to the overall building specification. The movement of items such as beds, trolleys, wheelchairs, and heavy medical equipment is a twenty-four-hour operation, therefore any floorings and wall protection products installed needed to withstand the daily rigours of a demanding hospital environment.

This is where the world class Mipolam Affinity collection exceeded the expectations of the Healthcare End User, in its outstanding performance when it comes to durability and easy low-cost maintenance. The Mipolam Affinity range was specified thanks to its 100% pure PVC construction which is a pressed and calendered homogeneous vinyl floorcovering, Its’ single layer of PVC delivers numerous benefits including: a remarkably high abrasion resistance, and it is also lighter, more flexible, and less brittle. It is also suitable for hot welding and ideal for creating seamless finishes, making it a widely popular choice for hardworking hospitals, laboratories, and cleanroom environments. The Mipolam Affinity range also comes with a unique and revolutionary surface treatment called Evercare™, that delivers an unrivalled level of chemical and stain resistance. In choosing Gerflor’s Mipolam Affinity the crucial element of high traffic, was successfully addressed, which was a high priority on the client’s specification agenda.

The refurbishment project would also benefit from the specification and installation of the Gradus Wall Protection system, comprising of the SureProtect Endure Wall Cladding and PVC-u SHR40P Handrails, alongside the High Impact Corner Guards, which provided an ideal protective solution for the busy healthcare environment.

Chris Pursey, Gerflor Key Account Healthcare Manager – Flooring commented on the project by saying, “The Estates team at University Hospitals Bristol and Weston NHS Foundation Trust (UHBW) and their contractor Sisk approached Gerflor for a complete flooring and wall protection specification for this highly busy service corridor. The existing wall and floor finishes were extremely worn and damaged and they wanted to quickly and efficiently improve the appearance of the space by introducing some lighter colours. Specifying Gerflor’s Mipolam Affinity from the fifty colours available to choose from and the Gradus wall protection system was the ideal fast track choice.”

In order to meet the specific requirements of the different areas of hospitals, Gerflor offer products that provide unparalleled resistance to foot, wheeled, heavy loading traffic with particularly durable flooring that is exceptionally hygienic thanks to the antibacterial and antiviral properties of their specialised ranges.

Chris Pursey explained that the trust had used Gerflor flooring and Gradus wall protection on previous projects and they wanted to use a single business that could provide a complete and holistic flooring and wall protection specification. The area has varying floor levels with ramps, so handrails were specified alongside wall protection sheets for additional safety. Mipolam Affinity flooring was chosen in two colours, with a darker grey used as a border to assist with wayfinding.

Ian Cartwright, Gradus Specification Area Sales Manager – Wall Protection, commented, “When we first visited this corridor, there was excessive damage to the walls, caused mainly by trolleys and wheelchairs. The site team had been making good the walls for a number of years, but long term this could not be sustained. As a combined business, Gerflor and Gradus were offered the opportunity to improve and renovate the healthcare corridor for both the flooring and walls, to propose some innovations that would deliver the required protection for the facility and ensure that any recommendations would also offer tangible cost savings for the client. By doing both together, it enabled Gerflor and Gradus to offer a complete and holistic surface protection solution that was not only aesthetically pleasing but would also deliver the technical performance required for the building, this included specifying the colour contrasts that would meet all the Approved Document M regulations for Light Reflectance Values (LRV’s). It was decided to match the SureProtect Endure wall cladding to the main colour of the walls and then use a contrasting colour for both the handrails and corner guards to meet the required guidelines.”

Representing the Bristol Royal Infirmary (BRI) hospital, Nicholas Marsh, the Estates Officer for Capital, and PLACE Projects commented, “We needed a project where Gerflor and Gradus could provide a complete solution for the busy corridor in the King Edward building within the hospital. This corridor was identified as requiring complete renovation by the surveyors.”

On specification choices, Nicholas Marsh noted that they had problems ordering flooring from other companies due to the lead time, as the materials needed to be shipped in from abroad. Gerflor was recommended to them by their floor layer, together with a number of meetings taking place with the Gerflor representative Chris Pursey.

The area in question is one of the thoroughfares to the Hospital so there were issues with safe access and times for laying. Gerflor were able to supply the ideal solution that could be delivered in a timely manner.

The UK arm for the international construction and civil engineering company Sisk based in Bristol, would be tasked with delivering the installation element for the King Edward corridor project. The need for a high-quality install would be paramount as it would be providing a ‘showcase’ opportunity for the Gerflor and Gradus products.

Delivering excellence in the UK for almost 40 years with a proud record of leadership in the construction industry in Ireland and €1.5bn annual turnover, Sisk have the track record, scale, and capacity to successfully undertake large, complex, multidisciplinary programmes.

Mark Smith, Operations Manager at Sisk commented, “The project came about with a PLACE Visit which is patient-led and care in the environment. They identified that the corridor was requiring urgent refurbishment. The project had been in the pipeline for a few years but had got curtailed due to COVID and available funds.”

The timescales and fitting for the project would be on a very short lead time with Mark Smith outlining that they completed the installation in only one week for the Gerflor flooring and a further week for the Gradus wall protection and handrails, with two fitters utilised for each of the products specified. Mark Smith also explained that the Gerflor and Gradus products installed had recently been approved by the Trust and this renovation project was an ideal opportunity to showcase these world class innovations. The flooring and wall cladding installation and fitting went smoothly with no problems. This was particularly essential as Sisk were working in a ‘live’ hospital environment.

Making further comment Mark Smith summed up Sisk’s involvement by saying, “We had absolutely no issues with the Gerflor or Gradus products. The client is extremely pleased with the final result. Gerflor and Gradus are now the approved flooring and wall protection supplier for the Trust, with extensive works producing brochures and swatches to ensure the colours are suitable for the Healthcare environment.”

Ian Cartwright finally commented, “Being part of this project from start to finish was immensely rewarding. To see the difference, with the before and after images, demonstrates what can be done in a cost-effective way when using one supplier, who have both the products and experience, to enhance the buildings appearance, its longevity, and its overall performance.”

In conclusion Chris Pursey said, “The new Mipolam Affinity flooring is a big improvement on the old safety flooring that was previously installed and the replacement flooring from Gerflor is far easier to clean and maintain. The University Hospitals Bristol and Weston NHS Foundation Trust,

have recently chosen Gerflor and Gradus as their go to supplier for floors, walls, and accessories, which means that we can now supply the complete solution that they are seeking.”

When it comes to hospital floor coverings and wall protection in hospital environments, both Gerflor and Gradus have a continued commitment to product innovation, and this is paramount to their success in hospitals worldwide. The demands of the clinical environment in terms of infection control, hygiene, maintenance, and performance have pushed Gerflor and Gradus to create a comprehensive range of solutions for key areas in any hospital environment.

Nicholas Marsh ended by saying, “The Gerflor and Gradus products are performing exceptionally well and have been installed now for over six months. The new flooring and wall protection solutions have significantly upgraded the look and feel of the facility, and we would definitely specify Gerflor and Gradus again as their products are of a high quality.”

The Gerflor and Gradus healthcare ranges are ideal for use in a wide variety of applications across a healthcare facility. Products can be combined to provide a complete package that balances performance, aesthetics and cost, alongside environmentally responsible manufacturing processes.

Supporting Information

Overview of Gerflor and Gradus and products installed.

Gerflor Company Overview

Gerflor is a manufacturer of comprehensive contract interior flooring solutions, including vinyl, linoleum, carpets, and rubber. Gerflor innovations help to create attractive and functional environments, as well as enhance and protect a vast range of healthcare settings and interiors. Gerflor solutions are proven to enhance the longevity of a building whilst reducing long term maintenance costs. Gerflor works in partnership with the healthcare sector to ensure buildings are safe and accessible for all users.

Gerflor products overview specified for Bristol Royal Infirmary.

Mipolam Affinity is a vinyl flooring homogeneous pressed in 2m sheets, with a thickness of 2mm and a weight of 2800g. The non-directional design with colour throughout the thickness is available in 50 references presenting a contrasted designed & a matt finish. This flooring is recommended for collective buildings making skirtings easier, as well as angles and welding.

Mipolam Affinity is equipped with Evercare ™, patented surface treatment obtained by UV laser cross-linking offering the best chemical resistance to the main products used in healthcare environment as betadine, eosin, hydro alcoholic solutions, making the maintenance easy and the floor long lasting. This treatment avoids applying any acrylic emulsion throughout the lifetime of the product.

It is free of formaldehyde, heavy metals and CMR 1 & 2 or vPvB (very persistent and very bio-accumulative) or PBT (persistent, bio-accumulative and toxic) and is REACH compliant. It is 100% phthalates free and recyclable.

Its VOC emissions after 28 days (ISO 16000-6) are below detection levels (<10 μg / m3) and this product is classified A + (the best class).

A co-ordinated approach to design across the range delivers fifty fantastic colours in Mipolam Affinity, ten striking colours in Mipolam Affinity EL7 and six stunning colour choices in Mipolam Elegance EL5.

Gradus Company Overview

Gradus is a manufacturer of comprehensive contract interior solutions, including stair edgings, floor trims, barrier matting, lighting, and wall protection. Gradus innovations help to create attractive and functional environments, as well as enhancing and protecting a large selection of healthcare interiors. Gradus solutions are proven to enhance the longevity of a building whilst reducing long term maintenance costs. Gradus works in partnership with the healthcare sector to ensure buildings are safe and accessible for all users.

Gradus products overview specified for Bristol Royal Infirmary.

SureProtect Endure from Gradus is a versatile protective wall cladding available in 35 standard colours, designed to work as a stand-alone product or with Gradus’ PVC-u wall protection profiles for a complete solution. It provides a durable layer suitable for various environments, including education, healthcare, retail, and hospitality. SureProtect Endure can be used in sheet form for full wall coverage, cut into rub rails or kickplates, or thermoformed into bespoke profiles like corner guards, column guards, or door edge and frame protectors.

Gradus High Impact PVC-u corner guards are designed to protect vulnerable building areas from damage caused by wheeled and pedestrian traffic, reducing maintenance costs and maintaining interior appearances. They consist of an aluminium or PVC-u retainer, PVC-u cover, and finishing caps. The aluminium retainer offers reinforced defence against high impact damage, while the through-coloured, textured PVC-u covers conceal impact and abrasion effects and are easily replaceable. Available in three sizes, six standard heights, and 33 colours, these corner guards can be combined with other Gradus protection products for a complete solution.

The SHR40P handrail features an aluminium retainer, PVC-u cover, anodised aluminium brackets, and PVC-u accessories, including returns, corners, variable angles, and end stops, all with black reveals in an anti-bacterial finish for smooth joints. Available in 32 colours, the through-coloured PVC-u covers and accessories conceal impact and abrasion effects.

The 40mm diameter handrail offers a comfortable grip, complying with HBN 00-04, HBN 00-10, BS 8300-2:2018, and Building Regulations 2010. Handrails should be easily identifiable and selected in a colour with a Light Reflectance Value (LRV) 30 points different from the surrounding surface, all Gradus handrail colours measured for suitable visual contrast.

Learn more about Gerflor solutions, ask for a free sample or contact us to speak to a specialist today by calling 01625 428 922, emailing contractuk@gerflor.com, or visiting gerflor.co.uk for the latest flooring innovations.

Learn more about Gradus solutions, ask for a free sample or contact us to speak to a specialist today by calling 01625 428 922, emailing imail@gradus.com, or visiting gradus.com for the latest barrier matting, wall protection, lighting, and flooring accessory innovations.

When the time came for this major iconic refurbishment, the hospital turned to renowned interior specialists Gerflor to transform several key areas, including the main reception, corridors, and the sexual health clinic. The world class collections from the Taralay Premium, Taralay Impression, Tarasafe Ultra product ranges and the Mural Ultra Design wall coverings were installed on time and to budget to ensure that the Healthcare facility is future proofed for many more years to come.

The Challenge: World Class Durability, Design, Hygiene

Hospital environments demand more than just aesthetic appeal. There is an ongoing need for an interior that is functional and hard wearing, delivers consistent hygiene, whilst also creating a healing and inclusive space for all. The flooring and wall coverings required by the Healthcare Estate had to handle the wear and tear of constant use, whilst providing a safe and comfortable surfaces for all patients and staff alike. The hospital wanted to step away from typical Healthcare sterile and bland interiors, instead seeking, contemporary and warming designs that would create a welcoming atmosphere. The floor and wall covering solutions would also need to be extremely easy to clean and maintain to ensure that the healthcare environment is at the forefront of managing infection control.

Tony Thorne, Sales and Specification Manager for Gerflor South Wales, noted, “The client brief was clear … they were looking for something unique— remarkable with fresh finishes that deliver outstanding durability for high-traffic areas, and can also offer unrivalled levels of chemical and stain resistance.”

The Solution: Gerflor’s Cutting-Edge Products

Gerflor introduced a range of products tailored to the hospital’s needs, including the best in class, high performance and stylish Taralay Premium Compact and Taralay Impression Compact collections, as well as Tarasafe Ultra safety vinyl for excellent slip-resistance. These products were ideal for the communal areas, corridors, and treatment rooms. Additionally, the Mural Ultra Design wall coverings were also offered as a complete solution, as they are extremely robust yet visually appealing for high-impact zones.

This major transformation could not have been possible without a credible and experienced Flooring Contractor. TSF Contracts Ltd, were the natural choice, for this iconic refurbishment. TSF are one of Wales’s premiere refurbishment, renovation, and re-modelling specialists.

Founded in 1978 under the name T&S Flooring, the family run business has over forty years’ experience, specialising in the Healthcare, Education, Commercial & Domestic sectors. TSF Contracts pride themselves on their workmanship, offering clients a quality service, competitive prices, and short lead times.

Steve Thomas, Director at TSF Contracts Ltd praised the flexibility and quality of Gerflor’s products. “The colours and finishes specified were unique and uplifting, and the installation process was seamless,” he further added ‘“The hospital staff and visitors responded positively to the new look, with the modern designs helping to create a more homely and inviting environment.”

A successful trial: Resulting in the Facility Upgrade

Initially, the Gerflor’s flooring and wall covering products were tested in a refurbished ward as a live trial. The trial was a great success and subsequently, the products were then rolled out into other areas of the Healthcare facility where renovation was to take place.

Liza Methuen, Assistant Head of Estate, Capital, and Property Management at Aneurin Bevan Health Board, commented on the success of the trial, saying, “The flooring and wall covering products trialled are meeting all of our expectations. After several months of them being installed, I am still impressed with how the surfaces are performing and how they have dramatically transformed and improved the interiors of our Healthcare facility.”

The results: High performance and long-lasting impact

The transformation of the Royal Gwent Hospital is a testament to Gerflor’s expertise in providing flooring and wall covering solutions that excel in both appearance and function. Their products not only improved the aesthetics of the hospital but also delivered on the critical requirements for durability, hygiene, and ease of maintenance, for the busy and demanding healthcare setting.

The world class vinyl floorcoverings installed from the Taralay Premium and Impression ranges and the Tarasafe Ultra collection, were all specified for their visual look and also their exceptional technical performance. These innovative flooring surfaces are ideal for high traffic applications, suitable for rolling loads and heavy foot traffic. They all come with revolutionary surface treatments for unrivalled levels of stain and chemical resistance.

The Mural Ultra Design vinyl wallcovering was installed thanks to its decorative appeal with strong impact resistance, making it an excellent choice for the healthcare facility. The product features a coloured backing that enhances its aesthetic quality, ensuring it adds a stylish touch whilst maintaining functionality.

End user satisfaction: Delighted and impressed.

“We’ve had outstanding feedback from staff, visitors, and patients alike. We are delighted with the final transformation and the end result,” said Liza Methuen. “The success of this renovation to date ensures that Gerflor’s products will continue to be specified for future projects within the hospital, and that all spaces will maintain the very highest of standards when it comes to remarkable performance and contemporary designs, in order to meet our healthcare facility demands.”

Who is Gerflor: Innovator in healthcare solutions

Gerflor’s legacy of over 80 years in healthcare Gerflor continues to shine, with their complete flooring and wall covering solutions that meet the highest standards for durability, hygiene, safety, and acoustic performance, all whilst creating spaces that support the well-being of patients and staff.

Tony Thorne concluded, “The final outcome was absolutely superb, exceeding the client’s expectations with both the needs for a striking interior finish and lasting performance for many years to come.”

Gerflor has over 80 years’ credible healthcare experience, as a manufacturer of innovative and high-performance flooring and interior finishing solutions. These hygienic innovations are treated with patented surface treatments that provide an unrivalled level of chemical and stain resistance. The world class vinyl and linoleum collections are perfectly suited for hardworking spaces, including the intensive movement of beds, trolleys, wheelchairs, and heavy medical equipment on a twenty-four-hour basis.

Gradus is a manufacturer of comprehensive contract interior solutions, including stair edgings, floor trims, barrier matting and wall protection. Gradus innovations help to create attractive and functional environments, as well as enhance and protect healthcare interiors. Gradus solutions are proven to enhance the longevity of a building whilst reducing long term maintenance costs. Gradus works in partnership with the healthcare sector to ensure buildings are safe and accessible for all users.

Whitby Hospital is a Community Hospital providing inpatient, outpatient, and community services. Humber Teaching NHS Foundation Trust provides community and out of hours services to Whitby and surrounding areas. Whitby itself is a seaside town, port and civil parish in the Scarborough borough of North Yorkshire, England. Situated on the east coast of Yorkshire at the mouth of the River Esk, Whitby has a maritime, mineral and tourist heritage. It was the home of Captain Cook, but is more famous as the place where Bram Stoker’s Dracula landed in England and currently has a population of around 14,000 residents. This high-profile redevelopment project would need to be the responsibility of a dedicated architecture team who could deliver innovation, vision and ultimately quality throughout the new environment that was to be created. The task would fall to healthcare architecture specialists Medical Architecture.

Descending from the Medical Architecture Research Unit, Medical Architecture are born from research, innovation, and industry firsts. Their thinking defines industry best practices, creating better outcomes for patients, carers, and medical professionals. The newly configured community hospital which Medical Architecture designed bridges the gap between home and specialist hospital care, through the delivery of both outpatient and inpatient services in Whitby.

The existing Hospital ‘tower’ has been comprehensively refurbished and modernised to provide 21st century healthcare accommodation with a 19-bed inpatient ward. A purpose-built extension to the tower provides a new entrance to the consolidated Hospital, with better accessibility for those using the steeply sloping site.

The redevelopment of Whitby Hospital by the team at Medical Architecture has created a modern health and social care hub which supports the integrated delivery of primary care, secondary care, and community services. The under-utilised site has now been rationalised and rejuvenated, taking advantage of the hospital’s elevated location, which overlooks the historic coastal town of Whitby.

On specification and design Louise Drew, Senior Architect, Medical Architecture commented, “As well as being on the P22 supply chain, Gerflor had a wide selection of products to suit the different performance needs of the flooring in the varying spaces of the hospital, and the colours and patterns available allowed us to create a more domestic feel, especially in the inpatient ward. We are all delighted with the final finish and are pleased to say that our healthcare facility is future proofed for years to come.”

Andy Gordon, Gerflor Key Account Manager, Healthcare North said, “I began work on this with Louise Drew at Medical Architecture back in 2020 with the project being completed 2021. We discussed floor finishes, and she appreciated the colours and ranges that Gerflor were able to offer. This was also a Procure 22 scheme of which we had just become part of the framework. “Andy Gordon also added, “There was approx. 7000m2 of Gerflor product specified to all areas of the building along with a number of Gradus Wall Protection solutions for the corridors, clinical areas, stairways, wet areas, toilets, together with storage rooms and X-Ray areas. Overall, it was a significant project that would require innovative solutions.”

Dr Charles Parker – Clinical Chair, NHS North Yorkshire CCG said, “There is increased quality of very modern facilities now, and it has allowed us to not only secure these services but actually maintain some of the ethos of the building and retain that memorial that was built by the people of Whitby back in 1925.”

Doff Pollard, Whitby Governor, Humber Teaching NHS Foundation Trust added,” This development means a huge amount to the people of Whitby. It means they’re going to have a 21st century hospital facility, close to home, fit for purpose for the next thirty years.”

Louise Drew, Senior Architect, Medical Architecture went onto further say “We chose to specify Gerflor for their outstanding world class flooring products and were pleased that they could also assist us with the wall protection surface needs for the healthcare facility. It was refreshing to know that we could work with both businesses for this iconic refurbishment. We specified the Gradus wall protection solutions, thanks to the innovative products that would enhance the building interiors”.

Gerflor are always on hand for customers to offer advice on solutions specifically suited to healthcare environments. Working in partnership with Virhealth, an independent laboratory, experts in virology, it appears that the durability of viruses on surfaces can vary from a few hours to a few days depending on the type of material. Gerflor surfaces have been evaluated according to the ISO 21702 standard with incredibly positive results.

As a leading supplier of floor and wall surfaces for healthcare or cleanroom applications Gerflor has always worked in partnership with ultra-cleanliness and hygiene specialists.

Summary of Gerflor products specified for Whitby Hospital

Taralay Premium

Gerflor’s Taralay Premium range is totally unique in delivering a mass-coloured design flooring which offers outstanding performance for extremely high pedestrian traffic areas where high footfall is expected, providing a 100% pure homogenous wear layer that provides superior abrasion and traffic resistance along with long-lasting colours. The Taralay Premium is still today the best and unique product for healthcare environments, offering outstanding performances especially for high traffic areas providing outstanding durability with no abrasion or scratching impact.

It has a 1mm pure PVC wear layer and handles rolling heavy loads with ease. Taralay Premium has a Very High-Density foam backing and a double fibreglass grid reinforcement. Taralay Premium also has unique stain resistance (for aggressive chemicals used in healthcare) and comes with Protecsol® 2 technology and also delivers an Eco-responsible solution: Higher indoor air quality => TVOC <10µg/m3 (under the detection levels). The Taralay Premium range offers 135 references across 6 designs providing trendy colours and designs. The Gerflor Design Department collaborates with a host of designers, architects, and colourists from around the globe to anticipate new decoration trends, and to develop new designs and colours. The range of exhilarating designs choices offered by Gerflor provides healthcare designers and specifiers with an unsurpassed spectrum of choices and effects.

Taralay Impression Control

Taralay Impression Control from Gerflor is a safety sheet flooring suitable for medium to high traffic areas. For healthcare specifiers, the range offers 18 references and the collection is ideal for hardworking healthcare environments. Taralay Impression Control offers Safety in Numbers. It has an HSE 36+ pendulum test value, ≥ 20 μm surface roughness and a R11 wet slip resistance rating. It has a Group T wear rating, and it also offers a hygienic solution, thanks to a revolutionary UV cured Protecsol® control treatment for easy cleaning and maintenance.

Taralay Impression Compact

The Taralay Impression Compact range from Gerflor is the ideal solution for heavy traffic areas as it comes with a 0.70mm PVC wear layer and Group T wear rating. This vinyl flooring is safe and reliable with improved R10 slip resistance. Treated with Protecsol® 2 surface treatment to ensure no polish is needed for the entire lifetime of the product. The Taralay Impression Compact collection also delivers a range of eye-catching innovative designs in a wide array of stunning colour choices. It’s the perfect flooring choice for specifiers and designers who are seeking safety and durability, together with having the ability to access a range of sophisticated modern designs for healthcare projects.

Taraflex Evolution

Taraflex® sports flooring has been fitted at every Olympic Games since 1976. Approved by many National and International governing bodies as a world class sports surface. Taraflex® is ideal for new build projects and refurbishments and is extremely durable and cost effective to maintain.

Taraflex® is treated with Protecsol®, which renders polish redundant and is triple action meaning no polish is ever required, it contributes to easy maintenance and is anti-friction burn and slide/grip. Meanwhile, surface reinforcement which delivers durability and abrasion resistance is provided by a D-Max fibreglass grid. The improved Taraflex® Evolution product is now safer and better performing. The greater protection has been obtained thanks to a total re-engineering of the CXP-HD™ foam technology that provides cushioning for exercise and sports play. Gerflor’s Taraflex® Evolution continues to be the market benchmark in sports floors with outstanding durability, improved comfort and protection offering a P1 category shock absorbency (25% to 35% – compliance with 14904) and a 7.5mm thickness.

Mipolam Affinity EL7

The Mipolam collections from Gerflor already have an outstanding reputation for their performance in healthcare buildings and settings. The collections include Mipolam Symbioz and new to family, Mipolam Planet™ and Mipolam Affinity where healthcare professionals can choose from a wide colour and design palette, they can also mix and match to create a unique floor scheme. The Mipolam ranges come with a unique surface treatment called Evercare™, that delivers an unrivalled level of chemical and stain resistance The combination of its patented Evercare™ and anti-bacterial and fungicidal treatments ensures that stains such as blood and iodine can be safely and hygienically removed with a minimum amount of water and detergent.

Mipolam ESD-EL7 is a permanent dissipative flooring => 10^6 < R < 10^9 providing a palette of 9 directional design available in rolls and tiles and delivers TVOC after 28 days < 10µg/m3 => indoor air quality. Mipolam ESD EL7 flooring guarantees the highest level of protection against ESD risk due to its low generation of charges.

Tarasafe Standard

Tarasafe is a range of slip resistant sheet flooring that meets HSE guidelines. It is constructed from vinyl with deeply inlaid mineral crystal particles (patent pending) and coloured chips for a decorative design. Contains no Carborundum. Tarasafe Standard PUR is reinforced with a glass fibre grid and is suitable for use in all areas of heavy traffic where slip-resistance, durability and hygienic conditions are required. The Tarasafe Standard range comes with a unique UV cured PUR surface treatment which maximises its hygiene properties. This product also comes with a 12-year warranty and is 100% recyclable, when the product is at the end of its’ life.

Summary of Gradus products specified for Whitby Hospital

Gradus Wall Protection

Gradus is the largest UK manufacturer of wall protection profiles and controls with the design of profiles from initial concept through to finished product, including specialist CAD design and the manufacture of tooling. This ensures that quality is maintained and provides customers with an efficient, flexible, and fast service. The products are built to stand the test of time and are perfect for hardworking locations.

The Gradus CHR160 combination rail combines a handrail and a wall guard element in a single profile providing protection against impact from wheeled traffic whilst offering a comfortable grip to give reassuring pedestrian support and guidance.

The CHR160 combination rail is suitable for use in a wide range of environments including healthcare, education and transport. The easy-to-clean PVC-u covers and accessories are through-coloured and textured to conceal the effects of impact and abrasion and can be replaced in the event of damage caused by impact.

Gradus Standard PVC-u corner guards provide a cost-effective solution for protecting corners from damage caused by pedestrian and wheeled traffic and are ideal for use in environments such as hotels, leisure clubs, schools, offices and nursing homes. It is available in 5 standard heights* and 34 colours to either contrast or blend with the surrounding wall surfaces.

Learn more about Gerflor solutions, ask for a free sample or contact us to speak to a specialist today by calling 01625 428 922, emailing contractuk@gerflor.com, or visiting gerflor.co.uk for the latest innovations. To learn more about Gradus solutions, visit gradus.com.

In a world of extensive choices, it’s crucial that healthcare specifiers have a credible network comprising of the right suppliers at their fingertips, who can deliver not only complete fit for purpose solutions but are also readily on hand to provide a wealth of knowledge and advice built on extensive experience in the healthcare sector.

Gerflor has over 80 years of credible healthcare experience, as a manufacturer of innovative and high-performance flooring and interior finishing solutions. These hygienic innovations are treated with patented surface treatments that provide an unrivalled level of chemical and stain resistance. The world-class vinyl and linoleum collections are perfectly suited for hardworking spaces, including the intensive movement of beds, trolleys, wheelchairs, and heavy medical equipment on a twenty-four-hour basis.

Andy Gordon, Healthcare Specification Manager – Floors, Gerflor UK commented, “Exhibiting at Healthcare Estates 2022 provides us with a fantastic opportunity and platform to meet a cross-section of key healthcare professionals. We will be showcasing our ability to provide specifiers with a one stop-shop procurement process from our vast portfolio of products supported by a world-class service. We will also take the opportunity to highlight our latest unique flooring and finishing collections which are all aimed at providing the best all-around solutions for any healthcare facility.”

Gradus is a manufacturer of comprehensive contract interior solutions, including stair edgings, floor trims, barrier matting and wall protection. Gradus innovations help to create attractive and functional environments, as well as enhance and longevity of a building whilst reducing long-term maintenance costs. Gradus works in partnership with the healthcare sector to ensure buildings are safe and accessible for all users.

Mitch Dean, National Sales Manager, Wall Protection, Gradus commented, “What a great opportunity to showcase our world-class leading products for healthcare in partnership with Gerflor. We have the full array of solutions and a complete package including supply and fit for wall protection solutions to reduce risk on site. We look forward to meeting our customers and presenting our comprehensive healthcare range some of which includes textured wall cladding, hygienic cladding, handrails, dual rails, combination rails, wall guards, corner guards, bed protectors and door protection that can extend the longevity of any healthcare facility.”

Healthcare specifiers can future proof their healthcare facilities with proven innovations and access the expertise of the healthcare specification managers. Gerflor and Gradus in partnership with a fusion of products and services can help those involved in the renovation or new build of healthcare projects to select the right products for the right locations on time and to budget. The dedicated healthcare solutions from both businesses require less remedial work and are fit for purpose for the demanding needs of any healthcare facility and reduce overall lifecycle costs and OPEX expenditure. Gerflor and Gradus are ready to assist customers with specifications and provide technical advice, free site surveys, together with trial areas for both new build and refurbishment projects. In addition to this, best sellers of stock are readily available in the UK.

Visit Gerflor and Gradus on stand F26 to find out more.

Flooring for healthcare must tick many boxes in order to provide effective safety and infection control, cost-effective maintenance, lasting good looks and lower environmental impact. It must also meet the demands of different healthcare installations from hospitals to primary care centres and care homes.

Understandably, healthcare design is increasingly about health and prevention in a broader sense, and the responsibility of creating better, sustainable buildings that are healthy places for staff, patients and visitors. Specifiers rightly expect healthcare floorings to comply with international safety standards as benchmarks, leaving them to focus on designing healthcare buildings of the future.

However, infection control remains a crucial issue, given that it is reported that one in 16 people treated by the NHS picks up an infection. These nosocomial infections – infections acquired in hospital and other healthcare facilities – continue to be under the microscope in terms of combating transmission. If bacteria are present on the ground, it is vital that building materials do not cause them to proliferate. Floorings that meet ultra clean requirements therefore play a vital role in preventing the transmission of microorganisms.

French standard NF S90 -351 is the reference standard that defines the requirement for controlling airborne contamination in controlled environment areas in healthcare facilities. It proposes four risk class reference standards determined by type of activity, with 4 being ‘very high risk’. Depending on the risks, the ISO standard 14644-1 defines expected performance levels to be met; for particulate cleanliness in very high-risk areas this is ISO 4 and ISO 5. The standard also defines other values like bacteriological cleanliness and is an important benchmark for specifiers.

Pioneering surface treatments using advanced technology are taking protection control and hygiene to another level. Incorporated into new, seamless solutions with superior infection resistance, they include floorings, wallcoverings, handrails and corner systems, providing an integrated approach to contamination control in clinical environments.

With products for different levels of risk, those meeting and exceeding ISO 4 and ISO 5 requirements are developed for the highest risk areas like acute hospitalisation units and operating theatres. Suitable products under 24hr test conditions have shown no proliferation of the most common hospital bacteria in 99% of cases.

The cleanability of flooring is also of fundamental importance in healthcare. Cleanability is assessed by determining the quality of residual contamination present on the surface of the covering after set maintenance procedures. Products that retain their appearance with best practice cleaning procedures and less maintenance, drive down costs and step up environmentally.

For example, some floorings with fungistatic and bacteriostatic treatments allow stains commonly found in hospitals to be safely and hygienically removed with minimum water and detergent. Scuff resistant surface treatments that require no polishing or waxing also lower maintenance costs and the resulting environmental impact. In addition, whole life cycle implications are factors in the move towards ‘greener’ solutions.

Clearly healthcare flooring needs to be durable, functional and sustainable, however cutting-edge design and contemporary colour choices guarantee floorings look great too. For example, wood designs and decorative effects help create harmonious, uplifting interior atmospheres, aiding recovery and well-being.

Gerflor has a wide range of flooring solutions perfect for the demanding and stringent requirements of a healthcare facility and the necessary expertise to assist specifiers with their refurbishment and new build projects. A wide portfolio of designs and colours are available along with bespoke collections that provide outstanding technical performance including an unrivalled level of chemical and stain resistance as well cushioned flooring for enhancing the well-being of staff, patients and visitors.

Learn more about Gerflor healthcare solutions, ask for a free sample or contact us to speak to a specialist today by calling 01926 622 600, emailing contractuk@gerflor.com, or visiting gerflor.co.uk for the latest innovations.

However, approximately 416,000 people now live in nursing homes. This is 4% of the population aged 65 years and over, rising to 16% of those aged 85 or more. The care market is literally booming and set to develop even further in the coming years. Ensuring that our elderly have a decent level of comfort is close to the heart of international flooring specialist Gerflor.

The Orchard Grove Care Home is a care centre for the elderly, located in Prospecthill Circus in the Toryglen area of Glasgow. This 120-bed residential unit was named by the residents and has eight units. Each unit has been named after a fruit to reflect the name of the home. There is also a day centre based at Orchard Grove which has its own entrance and reception to welcome people using this service.

The Orchard Grove Residential Care Home needed flooring solutions that could meet their exacting standards of safety and provide easy cleaning and maintenance. A crucial element of the final flooring choice for the end user would have to respect that many of the residents have dementia and the flooring would need to empathise with this. The facility required some 2000m² of flooring that could deliver the perfect solution for their halls, en-suites, in-house hairdressers, staff changing facilities, cleaner’s cupboards and kitchen areas. Providing a long-lasting result would be paramount for Gerflor in supplying the correct balance of flooring products which included; Taralay Impression Comfort, Tarasafe™ Standard and their outstanding Mipolam Cosmo. Nearly four years on and in ‘situ’, the overall specification has been delivering fantastic results all round.

As a true healthcare, multi-specialist and with over seventy years’ healthcare experience, Gerflor has grown and developed to become an expert in the care home field by creating, manufacturing and marketing innovative, decorative, durable, hygienic and environmentally-responsible flooring for a host of healthcare-related solutions. Providing the UK nursing home sector with a range of products that deliver comfort, safety and durability is perceived to be pivotal by Gerflor in addressing this developing market and needs of the residents and staff alike. Delivering a host of contemporary, classical, stylish flooring solutions is seen as vital by Gerflor for supplying this growing sector.

The Tarasafe™ vinyl safety flooring range is available in over 80 finishes and is reinforced with a glass fibre grid, suitable for use in all areas of heavy traffic where slip-resistance, durability and hygienic conditions are required. Using mineral crystal particles, rather than the industry standard carborundum, Tarasafe™ with its improved performance, is easier to install, lighter and more flexible to handle. The range has a maximum hygiene rating meeting the EN Standard 22196 for anti- bacterial activity (E. coli – S. aureus – MRSA) (3) returning >99% levels of growth inhibition and comes with a 12-year warranty. Tarasafe™ is stain and chemical resistant and comes with the unique SparClean® surface treatment thus no polish for life. Tarasafe™ is a hugely popular choice for a host of environments; education, healthcare, leisure, hospitality, housing and in any applications, that require slip resistance to be maintained.

Mipolam Cosmo from Gerflor is ideal for heavy traffic areas in healthcare, education and other busy environments. Mipolam Cosmo also offers low potential for slip (≥36 wet) when tested to BS 79762:2002. It’s also easy to maintain and provides outstanding stain resistance. By combining the renowned hard-wearing Mipolam Cosmo with its revolutionary, patented Evercare™ surface treatment, Gerflor has redefined the standards for smooth homogeneous calendared flooring.

Also, specified and perfect for a vast swathe of nursing home applications Taralay Impression Comfort from Gerflor is an acoustic multi layered vinyl floor covering available in 2m wide sheet, with a group T wear rating. Taralay Impression Comfort comprises a Very High Density (VHD) foam backing reinforced with glass fibre and a printed design that’s protected by a transparent wear layer (0.65 mm thick) which offers 19 dB sound insulation and an indentation resistance of 0.08 mm. The product is protected by a UV cured surface treatment Protecsol® which is easy to maintain and permanently eliminates the need of an acrylic emulsion (metallisation). It does not contain any heavy metals or CMR 1&2 and it is 100% compliant with REACH. The product emission rate of volatile organic compounds is < 70 µg/m3 (TVOC after 28 days – ISO 16000 -6). It is also 100% recyclable. For designers, the range offers 160 references and includes 21 wood effect references, covering the spectrum of wood colours in 10 stunning designs. Taralay Impression is now also available as Taralay Impression Initial which is a perfect ‘entry level’ flooring solution that addresses a host of applications.

A crucial element of the specification would also need to ensure that the Light Reflection Value (LRV) would not exceed 15 on the LRV scale. Happily, the Gerflor products specified all easily met the required criterion.

Learn more about Gerflor solutions, ask for a free sample or contact us to speak to a specialist today by calling 01926 622 600, emailing contractuk@gerflor.com, or visiting gerflor.co.uk for the latest innovations.

Like other healthcare establishments, there is now greater emphasis on creating, well-planned, purpose-built buildings which break away from the traditional, utilitarian concept of care homes with nursing facilities, and which are better places to live and work in.

Many people in care and nursing facilities are elderly and disabled people who can no longer cope at home with day-to-day tasks and who require accommodation, meals, personal care and the help of registered nurses for medical needs. Some may be short-term residents recovering from illness, falls or operations, but many are long-term occupants. The challenge is therefore to provide a home-from-home setting within a safe, comfortable and caring environment that aids well-being.

Vinyl flooring manufacturers specialising in healthcare are responsible for contributing to these environments through the provision of thoughtful, well-designed and appropriate products that can help make permanent or temporary accommodation more congenial and as close to an ‘at home’ living space as possible.

Reliable, safety floorings with slip resistance to R10 / R11 and ≥36 HSE standards in decorative designs that residents might choose for their own homes have therefore been developed. Wood, stone and subtle patterns in natural, restful colour tones and matt finishes to reduce glare, are proven to be calming and therapeutic as uniformity and seamless designs throughout rooms, corridors and communal areas work well for residents.

However, some communal spaces such as cafés, dining and activity areas provide the opportunity to introduce greater vibrancy into the flooring. Here more invigorating colours can be a marker for interactive areas. The contrasting use of pattern and colour is also a useful navigation tool.

Uniting the application of innovation in design and colour throughout care and nursing home buildings also reflects the move towards blending outside and inside spaces.  This requires careful planning of rooms and communal areas with views towards outside while allowing easy access to courtyards, gardens and outdoor facilities so that residents do not feel confined indoors whether they are able to go outdoors or not.

Ease of access to all areas is a major consideration especially as wheelchairs are likely to be in constant use. Wheelchair-friendly resilient floorings are therefore well-equipped to cope with scratches and indentations without lowering their life expectancy. Exceptionally hardwearing, compact, heterogeneous vinyls designed for medium to heavy traffic areas with extra thick, scratch resistant wearlayers, for example, will perform well in these conditions.

Additionally, vinyl floorings with high abrasion resistance provide outstanding indentation resistance and recovery in busy areas, especially where beds need to be moved and trolleys and wheelchairs are used. This also applies where furniture might be altered in rooms where new occupants bring their own possessions.

The move towards providing improvements in care homes with nursing facilities also extends to the provision of en-suite bathrooms and wet rooms with wide doors and wheelchair entry. Seamless, fully watertight solutions incorporating wall to floor, clean corner and handrail systems that are suited to both wheelchair and barefoot traffic are ideal.

Due to soiling and incontinence issues, resilient floorings for healthcare must also couple safety and design features with advanced, anti-bacterial  treatments and superior, protective surface treatments for hygiene and infection control.  Floorings with UV cured PUR treatments are specifically designed to resist stains and permit easy, hygienic cleaning with water and detergent without harsh chemicals, wax or polish. They also contribute to lower whole life-cycle costs.

Reducing noise pollution in nursing and care homes is most advantageous and contributes to a more calming, pleasant environment. Acoustic floorings that are suitable for the sector come with sound insulation values of up to 19db that can reduce impact sound transmission significantly where necessary.

Top performing vinyl floorings are also tested to the highest international standards. This includes assessing floorings for compliance with ISO 16000-6 as all materials emit VOCs which can impact negatively on health and well-being. For long-term residents in nursing and care homes poor air quality can be of particular concern and products which have almost non-existent particulate and molecular emissions offer improved air quality.

Clearly design, safety, comfort and well-being are driving factors for floorings in nursing and care homes. Our aim as flooring manufacturers specialising in these environments is to provide design-orientated, dependable floorings that eliminate the institutional element where possible, while improving performance and function to help create places where vulnerable people can enjoy the best possible surroundings.