Creating safer spaces in healthcare with rubber flooring

Having set up a representative office in Australia this year, nora systems, a specialist in high-quality, resilient floor coverings, has strategically positioned itself to take advantage of the upsurge in healthcare projects in Australia & New Zealand. With a market share of more than 80 per cent in Germany and more than 50 per cent worldwide, nora systems is the global leader in the market for rubber floor coverings, focusing on the healthcare sector.

nora systems has been active in the region for more than 10 years, operating via a network of representatives, says Alex Morellato, the company’s Sydney-based regional manager. However, the Germany-headquartered firm decided to establish a representative office in Sydney this year to boost its presence in Australia and New Zealand. Before joining nora, Morellato worked 15 years in the construction industry and ran an international business as regional manager ANZ.

What are the benefits of rubber flooring in healthcare facilities?

nora rubber flooring can significantly contribute to a safe environment in healthcare for a variety of reasons, beginning with its composition: they are free of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) plastic and the risks associated with the leaching of chemicals used in the manufacturing of PVC products. Because rubber flooring does not contain PVC, it does not generate any hydrochloric acid, dioxins or furans, contributing to healthy indoor air quality for patients and staff. Nor do nora rubber floors contain plasticizers (phthalate) or halogens (e.g., chlorine), and some are GREENGUARD Gold Certified for low VOC emissions.

The floor’s dense, nonporous surface helps repel bacteria, making the floor naturally resistant to bacteria, fungi and micro-organisms. It also helps repel dirt, making the floor easier to keep clean. Additionally, rubber flooring does not require waxing, stripping or the application of sealants. The absence of wax and other chemicals benefits everyone in a healthcare setting, especially those who might be sensitive to smells or suffer from allergies that these products aggravate.

A dense surface also allows the floor to stand up to water, chemicals and other liquid spills without absorbing them. This includes food spills in cafeterias and break rooms, as well as disinfectants, betadine, blood and urine more common in treatment areas and patient rooms. These spills can be cleaned up quickly and effectively.

Should a fall occur, the resilience of rubber flooring cushions the fall and reduces the likelihood of serious injury. This feature is most appealing for patients using canes and walkers as well as orthopaedic patients working to regain their balance and ability to walk. Those in wheelchairs (and the nurses who push them) will also find it easier to maneuver chairs across rubber flooring.

Patients and staff will also appreciate the acoustic properties of rubber flooring, which contribute to a safe, healing environment. The resilient material in rubber flooring can attenuate a significant percentage of unwanted noise. As a result, noise generated by footsteps, conversations, technology and doors closing is reduced and far less distracting.

The resiliency of rubber is also important to medical personnel and members of the housekeeping staff, who spend the majority of their work day on their feet. Hard, unforgiving flooring surfaces can cause fatigue and negatively impact performance, while softer, more cushioned rubber flooring offers an important weapon in the battle against muscle fatigue and aching backs, legs and feet.

One of nora’s latest product developments is nora nTx — the self-adhesive flooring system marks an end to wasted time and long waits. Easily installed over existing flooring as part of a renovation, or in new construction, nora nTx is ready for immediate use.

Come visit us at the Australian Healthcare Week 2017 in Sydney at booth #151 & 153.

nora systems I www.nora.com I info-au@nora.com