Healthcare

There is increased understanding and evidence that hospital design impacts significantly on patient recovery, as well as staff wellbeing and retention. In a recent CABE report 86% of nursing chiefs thought well designed hospital buildings improved the performance and morale of NHS nurses. Good light, air quality and acoustic environment are key internal elements and the type of ceiling installed can have a significant impact.

HTM (Health and Technical Memorandum) 2045 sets out acoustic performance criteria for sound insulation and absorption within hospitals. High levels of noise inhibit patient recovery and reduce staff productivity levels.

Metal ceilings offer a sophisticated look, enhancing the perceived value of a building and the internal environment by staff, patients and visitors. Metal does not suffer from pattern staining or air movement defect. The finish on a ceiling can also impact significantly on the diffusion of light around a space, for example a low gloss finish (SAS FT) option is available that provides a plasterboard effect, diffusing light throughout a room.

Anti-bacterial coatings (SAS AB), applied during manufacture effectively inhibit the growth of microorganisms and control potential risk when used in conjunction with routine cleaning procedures. Ease of cleaning, is an important factor in the control of infection. Metal ceiling tiles, plain or perforated and backed with aluminium foil for sound absorption, act as a barrier to any filtering effect and render the tile a truly inert material. All that is required is simple washing.

Hospitals require seven times more mechanical and electrical services than office buildings. Metal ceiling systems allow services to be housed in the ceiling void; offering a range of different access options ceiling tiles can be easily and frequently removed without damage.

Within humid environments the damaging nature of moisture can be combated by coating both sides of the ceiling, thereby satisfying the most stringent corrosion tests.