choosing the right doors for hospital design

Here’s some advice about key design considerations when specifying doors in hospitals and other hygiene critical facilities.

Since microorganisms can be transmitted by contact, choosing the right doors can make a huge difference to infection control. Hospital doors can be a major source of contamination as they are the piece of equipment which is touched the most by patients and staff. Hospital doors are also vital for controlling clean air and traffic flow. This is why it’s crucial that the correct door is chosen as it can significantly affect the risk of infection.

Making the right door choice

When specifying hospital doors, considering the following points will not only help infection control, but it will also ensure building regulations are met and the doors operate efficiently, with a long, trouble-free lifespan.

• Hygiene performance
• Inorganic door construction
• X-ray and laser protection
• Hermetic sealing for clean air control
• Fire and smoke regulations
• Automations and accessibility
• Strength, durability and maintenance requirements
• Sound insulation
• Life cycle costs.

Choose Hygienic Door Materials

One of the most important aspects of a successful infection control policy, is choosing the correct materials for both the construction of the room and the components within it.

The Health Building Note 00-09: ‘Infection control in the built environment’ offers valuable guidance for architects and specifiers. ‘Doors should be cleanable, that is, smooth, non-porous and fluid resistant’. This is particularly crucial in areas where infection control is paramount.

Hospital doors should be carefully selected to ensure they are constructed using an inorganic hygienic material such as GRP (Glass Reinforced Polyester). Doors should also be easy to clean and resistant to moisture and disinfection procedures. A smooth construction should be defined as seamless with no texture, voids, reveals or laminated components which can harbor bacteria.

Specifying hygienic GRP doors for infection control

Hygienic GRP hospital doors are manufactured from a high technology moulded composite which has been independently tested. Laboratory tests conducted by IMSL (Industrial Microbiological Services) prove that hygienic GRP doors help prevent bacterial and fungal growth. Dortek Hygienic GRP doors have been independently tested by IMSL for resisting infections such as MRSA, Aspergillus Niger, Staphylococcus Aureus & E Coli.

Critical to the doors hygienic performance is its one-piece moulded GRP construction with no seams, joints or voids where bacteria, dust or dirt can build up undetected. The inorganic construction and water repellency of Dortek doors provides no sustenance for harmful microorganisms. Hygienic GRP hospital doors have no lips, joins or edges (even around vision panels). They have an easy to clean surface which is unaffected by moisture or common cleaning chemicals and disinfectants. Colour is also built into the gel coat of the door to provide continuous long-lasting protection, which is not reduced by impact damage.

Hermetic sealing for clean air control

Hermetically sealing doors should always be considered for reducing cross contamination through air flow in high risk areas such as operating rooms and patient isolation areas.

Hygienic GRP hospital doors can be supplied with hermetic sealing options for controlling air. Hermetic hygienic doors have a unique patented track system so it seals perfectly against the floor and frame. The efficiency of the seal has been officially tested and results show it to be over 99% effective thus helping to reduce the spread of airborne infections, cross contamination and air handling costs.

Third party tested fire ratings and lead protection

In certain areas of a hospital, evacuation in the event of a fire is almost impossible. Intensive care units and operating theatres are obvious examples. Fire doors are often the first line of defence in a fire and their correct specification can be the difference between life and death for building occupants.

Hygienic GRP doors have a vermiculite-core and can provide up to 4 hours fire protection. Vermiculite is a mined mineral rock, which is classed as non-combustible. Hygienic GRP fire doors have been third party tested and have a patented concealed intumescent strip built into the door. This maintains a smooth seamless profile ensuring that there are no seams or ledges where dirt and germs can gather.  It is also ideal for high traffic areas as it never comes lose or needs to be replaced. Hygienic GRP doors can also be supplied with x-ray ratings and sound insulation for the added protection of patients and staff.

Touchless automations to reduce cross contamination

Hygienic GRP Doors can be automated to provide hands-free entry and further reduce the risk of infection. The doors use an intelligent automation which is key for user safety. The automations react to the smallest obstruction and photo sensors stop the door from closing onto passing traffic. Doors can also be provided with access control systems, locking and interface with BMS (Building Management Systems) for extra security.

Durability and life cycle costs

With sustainability at the forefront of the healthcare sector, doors which require frequent servicing or redecoration should always be avoided. Hygienic GRP doors are up to 42% lighter than wood or laminate doors. This removes any need for expensive maintenance work or replacement due to excessive wear on hinges and closers. GRP is an exceptionally strong and heavy-duty material which gives it the lowest whole life cycle costs in comparison to other alternatives.

Complete project management from specialists with over 50 years’ experience

Dortek has over 50 years’ experience working in the healthcare sector and has completed over 2000 projects for the NHS, international healthcare authorities and the private sector.

Dortek’s in-house project managers work with architects to provide fully integrated, hygienic door systems which help to improve both infection control rates and operational costs. Dortek hygienic GRP doors are extremely versatile and can meet a wide variety of performance characteristics to suit all healthcare applications. This includes requirements for hygiene, fire ratings, smoke, air sealing control, touch-free automations, x-ray and laser protection, acoustics, water resistance, infection control and durability.

For these reasons Dortek hygienic GRP doors are specified by hospitals, architects, healthcare planners and infection control departments across the world.

Just some of the hospital’s already benefiting from using Dortek’s hygienic GRP hospital doors.

• The London Clinic, Harley Street, UK
• Great Ormond Street Hospital, UK
• School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, UK
• Royal London Hospital, UK
• Guys and St Thomas Hospital, UK
• New York-Presbyterian Hospital, US
• Yale University Hospital, US
• National Children’s Hospital, US
• Baptist Health South Florida, US
• St. Luke’s Hospital, US
• Sengkang General Hospital, Singapore
• Ng Teng Fong Hospital, Singapore
• Singapore General Hospital, Singapore
• KK Women and Children’s Hospital, Singapore
• National Heart Centre (NHC), Singapore
• National University Hospital, Singapore
• National Centre for Infectious Diseases, Singapore
• Alice Spring Hospital, Australia
• Vincent’s Private Hospital, Australia
• Royal Adelaide Hospital, Australia
• Mercy Hospital, New Zealand

Here’s some advice about key design considerations when specifying doors in hospitals and other hygiene critical facilities.

Since microorganisms can be transmitted by contact, choosing the right doors can make a huge difference to infection control. Hospital doors can be a major source of contamination as they are the piece of equipment which is touched the most by patients and staff. Hospital doors are also vital for controlling clean air and traffic flow. This is why it’s crucial that the correct door is chosen as it can significantly affect the risk of infection.

Making the right door choice

When specifying hospital doors, considering the following points will not only help infection control, but it will also ensure building regulations are met and the doors operate efficiently, with a long, trouble-free lifespan.

• Hygiene performance
• Inorganic door construction
• X-ray and laser protection
• Hermetic sealing for clean air control
• Fire and smoke regulations
• Automations and accessibility
• Strength, durability and maintenance requirements
• Sound insulation
• Life cycle costs.

Choose Hygienic Door Materials

One of the most important aspects of a successful infection control policy, is choosing the correct materials for both the construction of the room and the components within it.

The Health Building Note 00-09: ‘Infection control in the built environment’ offers valuable guidance for architects and specifiers. ‘Doors should be cleanable, that is, smooth, non-porous and fluid resistant’. This is particularly crucial in areas where infection control is paramount.

Hospital doors should be carefully selected to ensure they are constructed using an inorganic hygienic material such as GRP (Glass Reinforced Polyester). Doors should also be easy to clean and resistant to moisture and disinfection procedures. A smooth construction should be defined as seamless with no texture, voids, reveals or laminated components which can harbor bacteria.

Specifying hygienic GRP doors for infection control

Hygienic GRP hospital doors are manufactured from a high technology moulded composite which has been independently tested. Laboratory tests conducted by IMSL (Industrial Microbiological Services) prove that hygienic GRP doors help prevent bacterial and fungal growth. Dortek Hygienic GRP doors have been independently tested by IMSL for resisting infections such as MRSA, Aspergillus Niger, Staphylococcus Aureus & E Coli.

Critical to the doors hygienic performance is its one-piece moulded GRP construction with no seams, joints or voids where bacteria, dust or dirt can build up undetected. The inorganic construction and water repellency of Dortek doors provides no sustenance for harmful microorganisms. Hygienic GRP hospital doors have no lips, joins or edges (even around vision panels). They have an easy to clean surface which is unaffected by moisture or common cleaning chemicals and disinfectants. Colour is also built into the gel coat of the door to provide continuous long-lasting protection, which is not reduced by impact damage.

Hermetic sealing for clean air control

Hermetically sealing doors should always be considered for reducing cross contamination through air flow in high risk areas such as operating rooms and patient isolation areas.

Hygienic GRP hospital doors can be supplied with hermetic sealing options for controlling air. Hermetic hygienic doors have a unique patented track system so it seals perfectly against the floor and frame. The efficiency of the seal has been officially tested and results show it to be over 99% effective thus helping to reduce the spread of airborne infections, cross contamination and air handling costs.

Third party tested fire ratings and lead protection

In certain areas of a hospital, evacuation in the event of a fire is almost impossible. Intensive care units and operating theatres are obvious examples. Fire doors are often the first line of defence in a fire and their correct specification can be the difference between life and death for building occupants.

Hygienic GRP doors have a vermiculite-core and can provide up to 4 hours fire protection. Vermiculite is a mined mineral rock, which is classed as non-combustible. Hygienic GRP fire doors have been third party tested and have a patented concealed intumescent strip built into the door. This maintains a smooth seamless profile ensuring that there are no seams or ledges where dirt and germs can gather.  It is also ideal for high traffic areas as it never comes lose or needs to be replaced. Hygienic GRP doors can also be supplied with x-ray ratings and sound insulation for the added protection of patients and staff.

Touchless automations to reduce cross contamination

Hygienic GRP Doors can be automated to provide hands-free entry and further reduce the risk of infection. The doors use an intelligent automation which is key for user safety. The automations react to the smallest obstruction and photo sensors stop the door from closing onto passing traffic. Doors can also be provided with access control systems, locking and interface with BMS (Building Management Systems) for extra security.

Durability and life cycle costs

With sustainability at the forefront of the healthcare sector, doors which require frequent servicing or redecoration should always be avoided. Hygienic GRP doors are up to 42% lighter than wood or laminate doors. This removes any need for expensive maintenance work or replacement due to excessive wear on hinges and closers. GRP is an exceptionally strong and heavy-duty material which gives it the lowest whole life cycle costs in comparison to other alternatives.

Complete project management from specialists with over 50 years’ experience

Dortek has over 50 years’ experience working in the healthcare sector and has completed over 2000 projects for the NHS, international healthcare authorities and the private sector.

Dortek’s in-house project managers work with architects to provide fully integrated, hygienic door systems which help to improve both infection control rates and operational costs. Dortek hygienic GRP doors are extremely versatile and can meet a wide variety of performance characteristics to suit all healthcare applications. This includes requirements for hygiene, fire ratings, smoke, air sealing control, touch-free automations, x-ray and laser protection, acoustics, water resistance, infection control and durability.

For these reasons Dortek hygienic GRP doors are specified by hospitals, architects, healthcare planners and infection control departments across the world.

Just some of the hospital’s already benefiting from using Dortek’s hygienic GRP hospital doors.

• The London Clinic, Harley Street, UK
• Great Ormond Street Hospital, UK
• School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, UK
• Royal London Hospital, UK
• Guys and St Thomas Hospital, UK
• New York-Presbyterian Hospital, US
• Yale University Hospital, US
• National Children’s Hospital, US
• Baptist Health South Florida, US
• St. Luke’s Hospital, US
• Sengkang General Hospital, Singapore
• Ng Teng Fong Hospital, Singapore
• Singapore General Hospital, Singapore
• KK Women and Children’s Hospital, Singapore
• National Heart Centre (NHC), Singapore
• National University Hospital, Singapore
• National Centre for Infectious Diseases, Singapore
• Alice Spring Hospital, Australia
• Vincent’s Private Hospital, Australia
• Royal Adelaide Hospital, Australia
• Mercy Hospital, New Zealand

Healthcare doors play a crucial role in the seamless and secure operation of medical facilities. As integral components of healthcare infrastructure, these doors serve multiple vital functions, ranging from ensuring patient privacy and maintaining infection control to enhancing security and accessibility within hospitals and clinics. E-ZONG, a distinguished leader in the field, brings over 26 years of expertise to the realm of healthcare doors. Founded in Guangzhou, Guangdong province, in 1996 under the name "SANHE," E-ZONG has expanded its presence with branches and factories in Foshan, Dongguan, Zhongshan, and Taishan. Over the years, it has evolved into the most professional and comprehensive provider in the clean industry in South China, delivering exceptional solutions that align with the stringent demands of healthcare environments.

Types of Healthcare Doors

Healthcare facilities require various types of doors to meet specific needs and standards. Here's an overview of different healthcare doors with their key features:

Patient Room Doors

Privacy considerations: Patient room doors must ensure the privacy and dignity of individuals undergoing treatment or recovery. These doors often feature privacy glass or window coverings to maintain confidentiality while allowing observation.

Noise reduction features: To enhance patient comfort, these doors are designed with noise-reduction features to minimize disruptions from the outside environment, promoting restful healing.

Operating Room Doors

Sterility requirements: Operating room doors are meticulously designed to meet stringent sterility standards. They typically include airtight seals, smooth surfaces for easy cleaning, and materials that resist bacterial growth.

Access control and security: Ensuring only authorized personnel enter the operating room is crucial. These doors often incorporate advanced access control systems and security measures to maintain a sterile environment.

Emergency Room Doors

Quick access and egress: Emergency room doors are designed for rapid entry and exit, facilitating the swift transfer of patients and medical staff during critical situations.

Durability and safety: These doors are constructed with durability in mind to withstand high traffic and potential impact. They also have safety features, such as panic bars and fire-rated materials.

Specialty Doors

Unique functions and specifications: Specialty doors cater to specific needs, like isolation room doors that prevent the spread of infectious diseases or cleanroom doors that maintain a controlled environment for sensitive processes. Their designs are customized to meet these unique requirements.

Key Features of Healthcare Doors

Healthcare doors play a crucial role in maintaining a safe and functional medical environment. Here are key features of healthcare doors:

Hygiene and Infection Control

Antimicrobial coatings: Healthcare doors often feature antimicrobial coatings that inhibit the growth of bacteria and pathogens, contributing to a cleaner and safer environment.

Easy-to-clean surfaces: Smooth, non-porous surfaces on healthcare doors make cleaning and disinfection easier, reducing the risk of contamination.

Access Control and Security

Electronic access systems: Many healthcare doors incorporate electronic access control systems, including key card readers, biometric scanners, or keypad entry, ensuring that only authorized personnel can access restricted areas.

Integration with healthcare IT infrastructure: These doors can be integrated with the hospital's IT infrastructure, allowing for centralized monitoring, logging access data, and enhancing security protocols.

Noise Reduction and Privacy

Soundproofing materials: Noise reduction is vital in healthcare settings to provide a quiet and restful environment for patients. Healthcare doors often incorporate soundproofing materials to minimize disturbances.

Privacy glass options: Some doors feature privacy glass with adjustable opacity, allowing for visual privacy when needed while maintaining visibility when desired.

Durability and Safety

Fire-rated doors: Many healthcare doors are fire-rated to prevent the spread of fire and smoke, enhancing safety within the facility. They are designed to withstand fire for a specified period, providing time for evacuation.

Impact resistance and safety features: Durability is essential in high-traffic areas. These doors are often designed to withstand impacts and may include safety features such as panic bars or automatic closing mechanisms to ensure rapid egress during emergencies.

Benefits of Healthcare Doors

Healthcare doors offer numerous benefits that contribute to the overall functionality and safety of medical facilities.

Patient Comfort and Privacy

Enhanced Privacy: Medical doors provide patients with a sense of privacy during exams, consultations or recovery procedures. Create a more comfortable and dignified experience.

Noise Reduction: The soundproofing feature of these doors minimizes external noise. Ensuring a quieter, more tranquil environment for patients to aid in the recovery process.

Infection Control and Prevention

Reduce the risk of transmission: Antimicrobial coatings and easy-to-clean surfaces on medical doors help reduce the risk of infection spreading. This is critical in healthcare settings.

Contain pathogens: Isolation or clean room doors are well designed. Prevents the escape of infectious pathogens, protecting patients and healthcare workers.

Enhanced Facility Security

Access control: Electronic access systems, integrated with healthcare IT infrastructure, bolster security by allowing precise control over who enters restricted areas, preventing unauthorized access.

Data monitoring: These doors enable real-time monitoring of access data, helping security personnel respond quickly to any irregularities or breaches.

Compliance with Healthcare Regulations

Comply with regulations: Medical doors are designed to comply with strict medical regulations and standards. Ensure compliance with safety, fire protection and hygiene requirements.

Reduce liability: by using doors that comply with regulations. Healthcare organizations can reduce liability risks and legal challenges and demonstrate their commitment to patient and employee safety.

E-ZONG Healthcare Doors: Ensuring Clean and Secure Environments

Cleanroom environments demand precise control over contamination, making specialized doors a necessity. E-ZONG Healthcare Doors offers a comprehensive range of cleanroom doors designed for various critical areas within healthcare facilities.

Diverse Material Options

Our product line includes cleanroom doors crafted from various materials, such as steel, HPL (High-Pressure Laminate), galvanized steel, glass, metal, and aluminum frame doors. This diversity allows you to select the ideal door material for specific cleanroom needs.

Versatile Applications

E-ZONG Healthcare Doors are suitable for a wide range of cleanroom and critical healthcare areas, including entryways, emergency rooms, isolation rooms, operating rooms, ICU rooms, and more. Each door is engineered to meet the stringent requirements of these environments.

Airtight Seal

Cleanroom doors are meticulously designed to create an airtight seal. This seal prevents air leakage, ensuring that contaminants from outside the cleanroom environment cannot infiltrate, maintaining the integrity of sterile areas.

Materials and Features

Our cleanroom doors are constructed from materials like stainless steel, fiberglass, and aluminum, ensuring durability and cleanliness. Specialized seals and gaskets are incorporated to eliminate any potential gaps that could compromise the clean environment.

Enhanced Security

E-ZONG Healthcare Doors prioritize safety and security. Our doors can be equipped with interlocks that prevent unauthorized access during operation and electromagnetic locks for additional security measures, ensuring the door remains closed when required.

When it comes to clean and critical healthcare areas, E-ZONG Healthcare Doors provides the assurance of quality, cleanliness, and security. Our range of products is designed to meet the unique demands of healthcare facilities, contributing to the maintenance of sterile environments and patient safety. Choose E-ZONG for reliable solutions that adhere to stringent healthcare standards.

Secure Your Healthcare Environment: Embrace the Power of E-ZONG Quality Doors

In the intricate world of healthcare, doors play a pivotal role in ensuring patient comfort, infection control, security, and regulatory compliance. From maintaining a quiet, private atmosphere to preventing the spread of infections, healthcare doors are indispensable. They safeguard both patients and healthcare professionals, contributing to the overall efficiency and safety of medical facilities. As a critical component of healthcare infrastructure, these doors silently serve their purpose, upholding the standards of quality care and well-being for all.