Creating Safer Heating In The Care Sector
Despite the tight regulations laid down by the Health and Safety Executive, concern is continuing to grow around resident safety in care homes amid reports that some homes are endangering the safety of service users by not adhering to strict guidelines around safe surface temperature radiators and pipework. The recommended surface temperature for radiators and pipework in care homes is 43°C. Above this the risk of burns and scalds increases, and residents are put in danger of potentially life-changing injuries if they are exposed to hot surfaces. The result of these injuries, however, is not only catastrophic for the resident; it can also be damaging both financially and legally for care home managers. Non-compliant homes risk warning notices or even closure and prosecution by The Care Quality Commission or The Health and Safety Executive; authority figures in the drive for improved safety measures in the care sector. Under the threat of closure and prosecution, many care homes seek the cheapest possible solution and cover their existing, often inefficient heaters with budget radiator covers designed for decorative purposes rather than safety. These covers are typically made from inadequate materials that are susceptible to damage such as MDF, become dust traps and become a breeding ground for bacteria. This is because access for cleaning the radiator and the wall around and behind it becomes limited once they are installed as they have to be fixed to the wall. They often have sharp edges and corners which present injury risks if residents fall against them. MDF cabinets are less efficient than metal radiator covers. The solid tops absorb a large amount of the heat generated by the radiator, driving up energy costs as homes crank up the thermostat to compensate. MDF radiator covers require regular maintenance or replacement because they aren’t designed to withstand the rigours of busy care home environments where people and beds are frequently moving around. Residential homes and other supported living environments require robust solutions designed to be cost effective over the life of the building. While cheap MDF radiator cabinets may appear to be the most cost-effective option, once total heating costs, repairs, cleaning and maintenance and the potential risk of claims are considered, high quality metal radiator covers present the best value solution over the longer term. How Can Contour Help You? Contour Heating supply a range of Low Surface Temperature Steel Radiator Covers, designed to last over ten years, relieving financial pressure on homes to frequently update radiator guards. Contour provide free on-site surveys to get accurate measurements to supply a bespoke solution for your facility. They aim to give residential care homes better control of their finances by reducing the time and costs associated with heating, cleaning and maintenance. For further protection, Contour Heating partner with BioCote® to include their anti-microbial technologies in their LST radiator guards. The additives in the powder coating have been proven to reduce the bacteria on the surface of the radiator by 99.5% in two hours and is 99.99% effective against resistant bacteria such as MRSA and E.coli. Microbes such as H1N1 influenza virus, Salmonella and Streptococcus faecaliscan be found on many surfaces, including radiators. BioCote® inhibits the growth of these bacteria for the lifespan of the LST radiator, reducing the risk of cross-contamination creating more hygienic spaces and proving a safer and healthier environment for service users and staff alike. To arrange your free site survey and consultation, contact Contour on 01952 290498, or visit https://www.contourheating.co.uk/ To arrange your free site survey and consultation, Contour Heating Products Ltd The Mansions, 43 Broadway, Shifnal, Shropshire TF11 8BB 01952 290498 sales@contourheating.co.uk
Pendock’s LST radiator guards protect against risk of burns in care homes
Richard Braid, managing director at Pendock, explains how low surface temperature (LST) radiator guards can help care homes manage the risk of burns from radiators. Many of the radiators fitted in UK care homes will be operating at temperatures that can pose a burn risk. Care home residents can come into prolonged contact with radiators, for example if they fall and are unable to move or call for help. In addition, some people can’t recognise or react to hot surfaces, either because their sensitivity to temperature is impaired, or their mental state prevents them from doing so. It’s therefore essential for care home managers to control the risks. According to HSE information on hot water and surfaces in health and social care, contact with surfaces above 43°C can lead to serious injury, and particular care needs to be taken where water temperatures are circulated above 50°C to control legionella. NHS Estates guidance for safe hot water and surface temperatures recommends that surface temperatures should not exceed 43°C. Low surface temperature (LST) radiator guards can help to protect vulnerable people, and are typically installed in care homes, as well as sheltered housing, schools and hospitals. Manufactured in Britain, Pendock’s LST radiator guards are reliable, effective and affordable. We can produce radiator guards in any colour, shape or size. Where guaranteed temperature control is required, a baffle can be fitted below the radiator grill, enabling compliance with NHS Estates guidelines. Guards with this feature have been tested and approved by the Building Services Research and Information Association (BSRIA). ‘Bullnose’ corners are an option, providing an extra level of safety for residents at particular risk of falling, or of self-harm. A model with a sloping top panel is also available. In addition, all Pendock radiator guards can be fitted with a welded anti-ligature mesh, which sits behind the radiator grille, removing ligature points. We take an uncompromising approach to the design and manufacture of LST radiator guards, combining our 30 years of experience with innovation and the adoption of new technologies. One example is the inclusion of an antibacterial coating to kill MRSA, Salmonella, E. coli and C. difficile; this added protection is a standard feature of all Pendock radiator guards. Our products are available with skirting cut outs and valve access panels, with no on-site cutting required, speeding up installation time and minimising disruption to care home residents and staff. The Plus models include a drop-down lockable panel to allow for regular routine cleaning, inspection and maintenance. Pendock also manufacturers pipe boxing to cover heating services, water supply pipework, soil and waste pipes and cabling, and we offer site visits and assistance with overall project design. For further information, please visit http://www.pendock.co.uk/lst-radiator-covers/, call 01952 580 590 or email sales@pendock.co.uk.
Change is in the air
Government departments are pouring over technical data and preparing new directives, trade bodies are examining every aspect of potential market implications. No, this is not another missive on BREXIT, but the reality of the changing world concerning Fire Doors and related risk critical products. Change is in the air and everyone should be aware of the urgent need to specify truly compliant products that play a significant role in the process of safety. Following the tragic events of the Grenfell disaster in 2017, a greater understanding began to emerge regarding the lack of a holistic approach to fire safety and the evident shortcomings of custom and practice, where the cheapest solution took precedence over properly certified and tested fire safe product solutions, such as fire doors and fire door assemblies. The recently published document Building a Safer Future,commits the government to a programme of reform which includes: The implementation of the Hackitt recommendations Create a more effective regulatory and accountability framework The introduction of clearer standards and guidance A vision to create a culture change The result of these actions will mean tougher sanctions for those who disregard residents’ safety, and more rigorous standards. In fact the Government has committed to carrying out a full technical review of Approved Document B. This will propose potential changes to a range of technical issues within the current Approved Document. While we all await the inevitable changes to legislation and good practice, it is encouraging to learn that Dame Judith Hackitt’s independent recommendations will form a cornerstone of the changes to come. Shaping future product specification, installation and ongoing use throughout the life cycle of buildings. For specifiers struggling to evaluate fire door solutions in this changing world, especially in respect to residential high-rise and complex buildings. It is comforting to know that Vicaima fire performance products offer a benchmark to the industry, with exceptional test evidence and incorporating key elements of Hackitt’s recommendations that less enlightened manufacturers have yet to adopt. Third party accreditation is assured, as Vicaima adhere to not one but two nationally recognised and highly reputable bodies to verify the performance of our products, namely BWF-Certifire and BM TRADA Q-Mark. In each case traceability is always visible with the use of tamper evident labels and plastic plugs to provide clear understanding of fire rating and of course origin of manufacture. This simple but effective marking, alongside a detailed inkjet stamp system to identify exact date of manufacture, enables Vicaima to establish complete control of our products throughout their lifecycle. Of course the fire door in itself does not provide the complete solution, this can only be achieved with compatible and rigorously tested components, including the correct frame and ironmongery. This is why alongside fire doors, Vicaima also manufacture an extensive range of doorset and kit solutions to create a complete, fully tested assembly via our Easi-Fit and Portaro brands. Doorsets represent a growing trend, advocated by government and industry as the way to ensure the whole system is safe and compliant. Vicaima peace of mind encompasses a full scope of performance characteristics for current and future housing specifications, namely: Fire Tested to BS 476 Part 22 and BS EN 1634-1:2014 Secured by Design (SBD) approved products Acoustic performance, both inherent and additional as required FD30 and FD60 rated, plus smoke seals to FD30s and FD60s Durability with DD171 and EN 1192 severe duty rating, class 4 Mobility provision via glazing and dimensional flexibility Environmentally robust (all products are FSC Certified) Longevity with a 10 Year Guarantee As specialist fire performance door manufacturers Vicaima have long understood the need to go above and beyond industry norms and simple compliance to provide cutting edge and safe solutions that are fit for today’s market. Vicaima has always prided itself on the construction of its fire doors, never cutting corners or compromising, regardless of whether it’s a humble painted door or a fashion conscious designer product. Performance and design go hand in hand at Vicaima with innovative designs options encompassing finish foil, veneer, laminates and paint lacquered surfaces; including cost effective products for demanding projects. Whatever future regulatory changes lie in store for our industry you can be assured that Vicaima fire performance offers appropriate solutions and the first choice for a safer tomorrow. For more information regarding Vicaima Fire and other performance solutions visit www.vicaima.com
Naidex – 26th & 27th March at Birmingham’s NEC
We’re thrilled to announce that we’ll be partnering with Naidex, Europe’s largest event for the disability and independent living sector! Celebrating its 45th anniversary, the show will take place on the 26th & 27th March at Birmingham’s NEC, and we’d love for you to join us at the show by grabbing your FREE ticket here! Get ready to see the latest in assistive technology, mobility products, accessible traveling, living aids and more! You’ll also get the opportunity to hear over 250 seminars covering a wide variety of topics such as employability, mental health, fashion and rehabilitation amongst others. Take part in the event’s interactive features by trying out new activities in the Live Sports Arena, and find the best fit for your needs on the Mobility Test Track. So don’t miss out, register for your free ticket now and witness the future of independent living! We can’t wait to see you there! www.naidex.co.uk
Care home turns into pizzeria for National Pizza Day
A TEESSIDE care home transformed into a pizzeria for the day as residents baked their own Italian creations. National Pizza Day was celebrated by staff and residents at The Beeches Care Home, on Green Lane, Stockton-on-Tees. Alwyn Behan, 86, Marian Knightly, 83, Jane Monaghan, 72, and Sylvia Smith, 77, were among those who created their own pizzas. The residents chose their favourite toppings, including pepperoni, chicken, ham, and a variety of vegetables, before baking them in the oven. Jane Monaghan said: “Pizza making has gone very well. Only I’ve got tomatoes everywhere. I’ve always been a messy cook. “It brought back memories of pizza-making parties with my grandchildren. My favourite pizza is double cheese with herbs.” Marian Knightly said: “I’ve really enjoyed it. It’s something different to do. My favourite is mushroom and cheese.” Alwyn Behan added: “I’ve enjoyed pizza making. It’s nice doing it myself and putting the different toppings on. My favourite is chicken and vegetables.” Jess Brown, home manager at The Beeches Care Home, said: “National Pizza Day was an opportunity to get messy and make our own pizzas. “The residents loved it. It brought back fond memories for many. And then they all enjoyed a slice with their afternoon tea.” The Beeches Care Home is part of the Hill Care Group. For further information visit www.hillcare.net.
Understanding the Customer Needs. The Key to Fastroi’s Success.
Fastroi are a Finnish company developing Care Management Software for the residential & domiciliary sectors. As market leaders in Finland they have led the digital transformation of social care in Finland for over 15 years. Fastroi developed ‘Real-Time Care’ (RTC) in cooperation with industry professionals and are now introducing it to the UK market with much interest. Data Analysis Gives a Deeper Insight Over the last year Fastroi have been examining the data collected by the CQC. It has given an understanding of the issues that many care organisations face. The results were clear. Many services are not using any kind of Care Management Software. They may achieve improvements and deliver high quality care for a short time, but they will always be susceptible to external factors. If changes creep in slowly, things may be difficult to control and may only be spotted at the next inspection. If they occur quickly, then the results can be catastrophic. Let the Process Take the Stress Not the Staff Real-Time Care from Fastroi is effective because the tool now controls the process, not the person. This is significant since most of the issues we have identified from the data could not happen if processes were properly controlled. It should be easy for a manager to use RTC to present all of the information about staffing levels or bed availability to service owners, making the service less susceptible to external influence or pressure. Staffing becomes more stable, staff feel more comfortable in their positions which in turn leads to higher retention levels and less agency staff being needed. This leads to lower costs, higher profits and a much less stressful environment. The result – Higher Quality of Care. Integrations Improve the Experience This vision sees integration to wider systems as key to the future of digital transformation in healthcare. In Finland, Fastroi work closely to integrate with the the Government Kanta systemto provide a more seamless system for people accessing their medical information. One of the advantages of Real-Time Care is it’s stability and reliability which has been a key factor of our domestic growth. Fastroi understand that when it comes to health and social care software, there is no room for mistakes. Improving the quality of care is at the forefront of everything that Fastroi do and this leads to outstanding results.
Paints and playdough for intergenerational sensory session
PAINTING and playdough gave elderly care home residents a new lease of life when they visited a nursery in Stockton-on-Tees. Residents from Ingleby Care Home were at Busy Bees Nursery,Myton Road, Thornaby, for an intergenerational sensory session with the children. The youngsters, all aged two to four years, showed residents how to build sandcastles and make pizzas out of playdough, broccoli, asparagus and red lentils. They also played with toys in the pond and painted on a clingfilm canvas using brushes and their hands. Resident Shirley Naylor, 84, said: “I loved having little Heidi on my knee dancing away.” Margaret Salmon, 93, said: “It was lovely. It really brightened my day.” Moira Hall, 76, added: “I don’t want to go home, I’m having so much fun.” Carol Singleton, home manager at Ingleby Care Home, on Lamb Lane, Ingleby Barwick, said: “The residents always thoroughly enjoy it when the children come to visit us at the care home. “They were all really looking forward to going to the nursery this time, to see the children and take part in a sensory day. “Everyone had a lot of fun and didn’t want to leave at the end. We are planning a picnic in the park with the children later in the year, so we can’t wait to see them again.” Ingleby Care Home is part of the Hill Care Group. For further information visit www.hillcare.net.
Supermarket bag pack raises funds for care home flower beds
CARERS have been packing shopping bags to buy elderly residents raised flower beds for their care home’s garden. Staff and family members from Willowdene Care Home, on Victoria Road West, Hebburn, spent the day at Morrisons helping shoppers with their packing. The supermarket’s generous customers donated £477.61 on the day, taking the home’s total to £1,482.61 of their £3,000 target so far. They are aiming to create a sensory garden with the funds, including raised flower beds and a potting shed. Michael Beaney, home manager at Willowdene Care Home, said: “We have many keen gardeners living at the home and they’re looking forward to planting during the warmer months. “Many of them can’t bend down to the ground, however, so raised flower beds allow them to get involved while stood or seated. “We’ve raised almost half of the funds needed so far, with the latest fundraiser being the supermarket bag pack at Morrisons. “A massive thank you to the staff and family members who gave up their time to help out. And also thank you to Morrisons for hosting us and the customers who donated.” Willowdene is part of the Hill Care Group. For further information visit www.hillcare.net.
Don’t play with fire
After all, the specification and use of fire doors is a very serious matter and as we all know can have far reaching consequences if wrong decisions are made. It is little wonder therefore, that care home specifiers are turning to Vicaima products to dispel anxiety and apprehension when it comes to certified and tested fire doors. Vicaima products include a full scope of performance characteristics, namely: Fire Tested to BS 476 Part 22 and BS EN 1634-1:2014 FD30 and FD60 rated Durability with DD171 and EN 1192 severe duty rating Mobility provision via glazing and dimensional flexibility FSC Certified 10 Year Guarantee For more information visit www.vicaima.com
