There are several factors to consider when selecting the most appropriate flooring for hospitals and other types of healthcare facilities. The priorities are naturally hygiene, safety, and durability, but it is important to consider the aesthetics as well. Here’s a guide to finding the best hospital flooring solution. 

Hygiene and cleanliness

Hospitals are places where high standards of hygiene and infection control are paramount, particularly in wards, consulting rooms and operating theatres. Therefore the flooring should be easy to clean and not harbour germs and pathogens. It should also be moisture-resistant and dry quickly to avoid excess disruption when it has been cleaned.

Seamless flooring such as sheet vinyl or linoleum are popular choices, because they reduce the number of crevices that can harbour bacteria. These materials are non-porous and tough enough to withstand repeated cleaning with harsh chemicals. Additionally, they may have an antimicrobial coating for an extra degree of infection control. 

This is especially important as the risk of superbugs such as MRSA (methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureusis) is more common in hospitals than anywhere else. These viruses cannot be treated successfully with standard antibiotics, and are a particular threat to patients undergoing surgery, or who have weakened immune systems, wounds, or burns.  

Strength and durability

Hospitals are places of constant foot traffic and rolling loads carrying patients, supplies and equipment. Therefore the flooring should be strong enough to withstand heavy wear and tear and be resistant to staining, dents and scratches. It should not deteriorate quickly even when exposed to constant use and regular disinfection treatments. 

In the case that repairs or replacements need to be carried out, these should be as straightforward as possible in order to avoid prolonged and disruptive interruptions to the day to day running of the hospital. 

Safety and comfort

Hospital flooring should have a degree of slip-resistance that is achieved by a slightly abrasive surface. There may be specifications regarding this matter in the stipulations of the healthcare provider, so it’s important to check beforehand, as flooring can have different grades of slip resistance. 

Some areas may have a higher grading requirement than others, such as bathrooms and kitchens that are regularly exposed to splashes and pooling of water. The flooring should also have some degree of cushioning and sound absorption qualities to provide a comfortable and peaceful environment for both staff and patients.

Aesthetics

Although hospital flooring tends towards the functional, visually pleasing colours and designs can help to create a calm and welcoming environment, particularly in non-clinical areas such as waiting rooms. Colour and pattern may also be used to assist with zoning and wayfinding throughout the hospital.

Popular choices of flooring material for healthcare facilities include poured rubber, luxury vinyl tiles, porcelain tiles, sheet vinyl, and linoleum. 

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