3 ways vinyl flooring creates cleaner, safer working & learning environments

With the onset of COVID-19 and talk of future pandemics, we are all having to adopt new ways of thinking, working and living. Factors such as hygiene and infection control are no longer an optional extra and is now a mandatory consideration.

Denver Coleman, chairman of Polyflor SA, shares why it makes sense to look to healthcare environments as the
benchmark for new standards across all industry sectors, as vinyl sheeting has been the regulatory specification in healthcare environments for decades, essentially for its hygiene and infection control properties.

1. HIGH STANDARDS OF HYGIENE AND INFECTION CONTROL

Studies have shown that vinyl sheeting is a material that prevents the growth of bacteria, especially MRSA bacteria. This is largely because of the completely seamless design.

Vinyl sheeting is impervious and has no gaps which ensures no microbial growth. The smooth, flat surface and
hot welded joints prevent dust or dirt from gathering and germs from multiplying in hard-to-clean areas. It is easy to both disinfect (which kills the microbia) and clean (ensuring that dead microbia are easily and effectively removed and don’t form a food source for new microbia). As a result, it has superior hygiene and infection control when compared with other floor surfaces.

2. DURABLE AND EASY TO MAINTAIN

Vinyl flooring is very easy to disinfect and clean by means of a clear sweeping and mopping protocol, killing and removing dead microbes. Effective cleaning can be done with very little water and chemicals, reducing moisture for bacteria to spread. Because there is no grouting, there are no small cracks or spaces that need to be cleaned to prevent moisture and bacteria build-up. Vinyl sheeting with polyurethane reinforcement (PUR) is highly durable and can easily withstand an increased frequency of infection control cleaning. PUR coating can also be
maintained without polish or sealer, making maintenance more cost-effective for businesses.

3.ENHANCED COMFORT AND SAFETY

Vinyl flooring is a resilient, flexible material that has a softer feel underfoot than hard flooring like ceramic tiles. This is ideal for facilities where staff spend all day on their feet, as the vinyl’s shock absorption properties help to reduce leg fatigue, creating a more comfortable working environment. Vinyl sheeting has good slip resistance and specialised non-slip safety flooring can also be provided for high-risk environments. The material has good insulation and thermal conductivity properties, creating a cosier environment than other types of flooring. The material is very effective at reducing “clutter noise” in an environment, absorbing sound to create a more peaceful environment that better lends itself to focus and concentration. Specialised acoustic vinyl floors are also available for environments with specific requirements. Overall, vinyl sheeting is the type of flooring that creates a safe, workable environment for staff and students in a multitude of different settings.

CARING ABOUT HYGIENE AND SAFETY

At Polyflor SA we know how daunting it can be to re-evaluate what you have always done when choosing floors, but we care about keeping people safe and aim to be part of the solution to the outbreak. We can conduct a comprehensive needs analysis of your property to ensure your vinyl flooring meets your need.

Polyflor vinyl flooring has set the standard in the healthcare environment, so you can rest assured knowing it can provide those same benefits in your commercial, educational or retail space.

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