Hospitals need specialized flooring to meet strict hygiene and safety standards. Cleanable, stable, and wear- and slip-resistant are some hospital flooring design requirements outlined by the Facilities Guidelines Institute (FGI). Non-porous flooring like luxury vinyl tile (LVT) meets this criteria and is resistant to water damage and stains.
LVT can provide safety, infection control, and acoustic performance, making it a popular choice when choosing flooring for hospital environments. We explore the top benefits of using LVT in healthcare facilities.
Safety: Slip Resistance
Slip-resistant surfaces are critical in healthcare environments as they minimize slip and fall accidents. One of the many benefits of LVT flooring is that it provides a textured surface option that enhances its grip. It’s one way to ensure you comply with hospital safety standards.
Durability
LVT durability in hospitals is critical due to the heavy foot traffic and movement of medical equipment. Both can usually cause significant damage. However, the construction of LVT allows it to resist scratches and dents, which is another reason it’s a suitable flooring for a hospital.
It’s also a cost-effective solution as, according to The Spruce, it lasts 10 to 25 years, depending on maintenance and quality.
Hygiene
Healthcare flooring options must also meet the seemingly impossible task of infection control in an environment that harbors germs. LVT’s non-porous surface prevents bacteria and other contaminants from penetrating and with antimicrobial treatment can further improve hygiene. It also has a continuous surface that is easier to clean and disinfect.
Noise Reduction
According to the Association of Americal Medical Colleges (AAMC), there are many sources of noise in hospitals. Your flooring does not have to be one of them. One of LVT flooring’s advantages is that it reduces noise levels in busy hospital environments due to its cushioning effect.
Comfort
LVT’s cushioning effect also provides comfort. Patients and staff can enjoy a softer underfoot experience with LVT compared to harder surfaces like tile and concrete. It can also feel warmer, which is beneficial in patient care areas.
Ease of Maintenance
LVT makes daily disinfecting easier and helps prevent the spread of germs. It requires minimal maintenance and is stain-resistant, making it ideal for hospital flooring where accidents may occur.
Anti-static Protection
Hospital flooring solutions should provide anti-static protection. Some LVT products have an anti-static design, which is important when managing static electricity. It’s a feature that can prevent malfunctions and severe damage.
Aesthetic Looks
Luxury vinyl tiles have functional features that make them ideal for hospitals. However, its wide range of colors, patterns, and textures also make it aesthetically pleasing. You can even customize them to create thematic elements that can provide a welcoming, healing atmosphere for patients.
LVT: The Top Choice in Hospital Flooring
LVT’s combination of durability, hygiene, safety, and design flexibility make it an ideal flooring for hospital environments. As healthcare facilities continue to focus on infection control and patient experience, LVT will likely remain a popular hospital flooring option. Customization can also enhance its aesthetic appeal, helping to create the perfect healing environment.
LX Hausys offers a wide range of resilient flooring colors that will give you even more creative freedom. We have been providing high-quality, eco-friendly flooring to our commercial clients for the past 70 years and can do the same for you. Contact us to get started on your next project!