Partitioning: splitting fact from fiction

Here Brian Pike MBE, technical consultant at partitioning system designer and manufacturer, Komfort Workspace, looks at how current fire guidelines impact on the use of partitioning systems in hospital premises.

There are numerous codes and regulations concerning fire safety in hospitals, most of which derive from The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005. Most of the Health Technical Memorandum Firecodes, which cover everything from managing fire safety in healthcare buildings, to risk assessments in complex premises, refer back to this legislation. Current guidance uses a five-step fire and risk assessment process which is designed to identify fire hazards; identify people at risk; evaluate, remove, reduce, and protect from risk; record, plan, inform, instruct, and train, and review. The legislation is also designed to help healthcare organisations identify which risk assessment processes they need to complete for the first time, and what elements can build on existing fire assessments. With such substantial considerations in all areas, care must be taken when installing partitioning systems in any part of a hospital. Modern hospitals are designed with a view to creating an environment that is sympathetic and supportive of the healing process – providing a soothing, calming atmosphere, while also striving for a reduction in infection transfer risk, and ensuring the safety of both staff and patients. From an aesthetic point of view, glass, laminated, or steel-faced laminated partitioning systems can offer a clean, bright, and modern atmosphere, whether they are used in offices, consulting rooms, or administration areas within healthcare complexes. Maximising natural light can promote healing among patients.

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