Healthcare Matters Issue 827

CONTENTS 827

EDITOR’S NOTES

Welcome to our October issue of Healthcare Matters. The South West Care Exhibition was rebranded as the Care & Occupational Therapy Show in time for this July’s event at Westpoint Arena, Exeter. This allowed for almost twice the number of exhibitors, compared to previous years and we bring you our detailed review on page VI – followed by Top Exhibitors on page VII.

Gina Burton Editor

The Clinical Pharmacy Congress unites healthcare professionals from various disciplines. This summer’s event was the 13th edition and our review on page XXIII showcases the highlights, with our named Top Exhibitors on pages XXIV and XXV.

Topro UK is our celebrated Specialist Walker & Premium Walker Company of the Year on page VIII. The company has enjoyed huge periods of growth recently, with heavy investment from the Norwegian parent company across logistics, staffing, products and infrastructure. Read all about the market-leading Topro Hestia Indoor Rollator and Topro Troja 5G.

Diversity NI is the largest interpreting and translation service in NI, offering in-person and telephone interpreting, plus certified translation services and is our Company of the Month on page XIV. Diversity NI operates a professional working database of over 500 interpreters, across 200 languages. including many central and eastern European languages, South East Asian languages such as Bengali and Gujarati, through to Swahili, Farsi, Arabic and Mandarin.

We cover many other ‘top topics’ such as: the benefits of modular wiring in healthcare, electronic locksets in mental health care, hospital-based medical gas alarm systems and the best sharps disposal solutions.

HEALTHCARE MATTERS

TOTAL CLEAN COMMERCIAL CLEANING COMPANY OF THE YEAR

OCCUPATIONAL

COVER STORY

Modular wiring: Transforming

healthcare projects

TOPRO UK SPECIALIST WALKING COMPANY OF THE YEAR

VERNACARE NURSING & CARE MATTERS SAFEHENGE PRIMERA MENTAL HEALTH MATTERS

CONTACTS

PUBLICATION MANAGEMENT

Kimberley Best Publication Manager 0121 824 7700 kimberleybest@productsandservicesreview.co.uk

EDITORIAL

Gina Burton Editor 07483 931474

gina@productsandservicesreview.co.uk

PRODUCTION

Robert Sharp Production Manager production@businessandindustrytoday.co.uk

ACCOUNTS

Paul Whitaker Accounts Manager 0121 824 4742 accounts@businessandindustrytoday.co.uk

Contact Sales on 0121 824 7700 info@healthcarematters.uk www.healthcarematters.uk

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The entire content of this publication is advertorial based. To place an advertorial or an advert, please call 0121 824 7700.

SHIRE CONTROLS MEDICAL GAS ALARM COMPANY OF THE MONTH

APEX WIRING SOLUTIONS HEALTHCARE ESTATES

EQUIPMENT MATTERS

PHARMA STORAGE SOLUTIONS

Total Clean: Leading with family values, innovation, and sustainability

In an industry where professionalism, efficiency, and environmental responsibility are paramount, Total Clean has emerged as a standard-bearer in commercial cleaning

Founded over 30 years ago, the company has grown exponentially, yet retained its family-based ethos, providing clients with a unique blend of personal care and cutting-edge service. Total Clean’s approach is a model of how modern businesses can balance professional excellence with corporate responsibility, particularly through their sustainability initiatives, support for charities, and their electrified fleet.

A foundation of family values

At the heart of Total Clean is its deeply embedded family-based ethos. The business began as a small, family-run venture, where every client was more than a contract – they were a relationship. Today, despite its largescale operations, Total Clean continues to foster this close-knit, personalised approach to customer service. This foundation sets the company apart from its competitors, many of whom have grown into faceless corporations, focused solely on profits.

The familial values evident within Total Clean manifest in how the company interacts with its clients. Each client, whether large or small, receives the same level of attention and care, building trust and fostering longterm relationships. This personalised service underpins the company’s success, as many clients remain loyal for years. Clients aren’t just customers to Total Clean – they’re partners in maintaining cleaner, healthier environments.

Furthermore, the company’s internal culture reflects these values. Employees are considered part of the extended family, which fosters a collaborative and supportive work environment. Total Clean invests in its people through training, personal development opportunities, and ensuring that staff are well-equipped to deliver consistently high standards. It’s this sense of care, both internally and externally, that enhances Total Cleans reputation as a trusted partner in the cleaning industry.

Professionalism and innovation

While family-based values are central to Total Cleans operations, their professionalism and commitment to excellence drive their service delivery. Operating across a range of sectors, including offices, healthcare facilities, schools, and retail spaces, Total Clean has proven expertise in maintaining safe and hygienic environments. Their highly trained staff deliver consistent results, using the latest technology and cleaning methods to ensure every task is completed to the highest standard.

Innovation plays a significant role in their service delivery. Total Clean embraces cutting-edge

technologies to enhance efficiency and effectiveness, such as the use of robotics in cleaning operations. Robotic cleaners, equipped with AI-powered technology, allow for more consistent and precise cleaning, especially in larger commercial spaces. These machines can operate outside of regular business hours, reducing disruptions and optimising cleaning schedules. This focus on technology not only ensures top-tier results but also reflects Total Cleans forward-thinking mindset.

Commitment to sustainability

One of Total Clean’s most distinguishing features is its commitment to sustainability. In an era where environmental consciousness is no longer a luxury but a necessity, Total Clean has embraced green initiatives as part of its core philosophy. The company understands that the cleaning industry can have significant environmental impacts, and it has proactively taken steps to minimise its carbon footprint.

A key aspect of this is Total Cleans use of an electrified fleet and the installation of their own solar power plant with EV converters. In place of traditional, fossil-fuel-powered vehicles, the company operates electric vehicles (EVs) to service their clients. This switch to an electrified fleet helps to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution, making a direct contribution to cleaner urban environments. The adoption of EVs not only aligns with global efforts to combat climate change but also showcases Total Cleans commitment to being a leader in sustainable practices within its industry.

Moreover, Total Clean goes beyond the environmental benefits of its electric fleet. For every new client contract, the company plants a tree as part of its carbon offset program. This initiative is both symbolic and practical – each tree planted helps to absorb carbon dioxide, further mitigating the environmental impact of their operations. This commitment to offsetting carbon emissions is a testament to Total Cleans genuine concern for the environment and their desire to give back to nature.

Corporate responsibility and charitable engagement

Total Cleans corporate responsibility extends beyond sustainability; the company is deeply involved in charitable work and giving back to the community. A key example of this is their active support of charities such as St Helena and Isabel Hospices, two organisations dedicated to providing care for those with lifelimiting illnesses. These hospices offer crucial support to individuals and families during some of life’s most challenging moments, and Total Cleans involvement goes a long way in helping these institutions continue their important work.

The company’s charitable efforts also extend to broader causes. For instance, Total Clean has participated in the ‘Charity Boots’ initiative, which provides financial assistance or supplies to those in need. This program is a reflection of Total Cleans sense of community that extends beyond just doing business; it’s about making a positive impact wherever possible.

Corporate responsibility is not just about

donations for Total Clean; it is about creating a ripple effect of goodwill. By actively participating in charitable programs, the company demonstrates that business success can – and should – be intertwined with making a tangible difference in the world. Their support for hospices and other charitable initiatives showcases their commitment to social causes, reinforcing their family-based values of empathy, care, and responsibility.

Robotics and future-forward practices

In addition to their sustainable and charitable practices, Total Clean is investing in the future through their use of advanced robotics. This reflects a broader trend in the cleaning industry towards automation, as businesses look for ways to improve efficiency while maintaining high standards. Total Cleans use of robotic cleaners not only increases operational efficiency but also allows for more consistent cleaning in high-traffic or hard-toreach areas.

By integrating robotics into their services, Total Clean is leading the charge towards a more tech-savvy, sustainable future. The automation of routine tasks frees up staff to focus on more specialised services, ensuring that human expertise and judgment are applied where they are most needed. Robotics, in combination with human oversight, offers an ideal blend of efficiency and attention to detail, reducing costs for clients while maintaining high standards of cleanliness.

A holistic approach to corporate responsibility

Total Cleans holistic approach to corporate responsibility is admirable. Their efforts extend

far beyond the daily tasks of cleaning – they are actively contributing to a more sustainable, socially responsible world. Their investments in electric vehicles, carbon offsetting through tree planting, and adoption of robotics all point towards a future-focused company that is as committed to environmental sustainability as it is to professional service.

Their charitable contributions, particularly towards hospices such as St Helena and Isabel, show that Total Clean understands the importance of corporate social responsibility on a human level. These efforts are not only generous but deeply aligned with their core values of care, respect, and community.

Conclusion

Total Clean stands as a shining example of how a business can maintain its family-based roots while growing into a professional, innovative, and socially responsible leader.

Through their commitment to sustainability, professionalism, and charitable giving, Total Clean has proven business success need not come at the expense of the environment or community. Their electrified fleet, robotics, and carbon offset programs highlight their forward-thinking approach, while their support for hospices and other charities reflects their deeply held family values. Total Clean is not just cleaning spaces – it is building a cleaner, more sustainable future.

Contact 0207 935 5088 enquiries@totalclean.co.uk www.totalclean.co.uk

For 2024, the South West Care Exhibition was bigger and better, aptly rebranded to the Care & Occupational Therapy Show, held at Westpoint Arena, Exeter, from 17 July 2024, with space for almost twice the number of exhibitors as 2020, a great proportion of which were already filled by repeat bookings.

Among them were organisations that brought along innovative products and services that had not been showcased in the South West before. Attending the show was the chance for visitors to be among the first to benefit from & be inspired by the amazing innovation that was on display.

Visitors saw the technology in action and learned how it could benefit their business. They could also meet decision-makers

and make connections with those who might just be the ones to help grow their organisation and enhance their career.

Visitors were able to discuss any proposed projects with experts in the industry and leave with a clearer vision of how to make their goals a reality.

More than anything, the Care & Occupational Therapy Show 2024 was a day of celebration of the very best the South West had to offer the care industry.

This was a one-day event that featured an interactive trade show floor, where attendees had the opportunity to talk with representatives from organisations and businesses in the industry while exploring their latest products & services, as well as informative panel discussions on various topics including clinical intervention, occupational therapy assessment

methods, advertising ideas for healthcare providers, diagnostic tools and more.

The Care & Occupational Therapy Show has been running for 5 years. This year's event included buyers from Care Homes, Domiciliary care companies, Care Groups, NHS, Trusts, Individual Carers, Individual Practitioners also. Attracting around 2,000 visitors it was truly a festival of business for the care community.

The Care & Occupational Therapy Show returns next year to Exeter’s Westpoint Arena on 16 July 2025. This is our pick of the best exhibitors from this year’s event, listed here in alphabetical order: Frequency Precision & Leecare Solutions. Further details can be found on this page and the next.

Your proven software partner in care & operational management

Leecare, an organisation that boasts a rich history of supporting, social, health and care providers to demonstrate and provide the highest standard in health, residential, retirement and supported living care, through consulting and technology. Today, our 1,000+ clients include small independent businesses to larger corporate multi-site organisations across Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, UK, China and Africa.

Platinum6 is our advanced care and operational management software designed to empower users in creating and managing person-centred, contextual, and adaptable care plans tailored to the unique needs of service users across both long-term

and short-term care settings, as well as community and residential environments. With its user-friendly interface, Platinum6 enables real-time updates and modifications to care plans and notes, ensuring they remain relevant and effective as circumstances change. Users can achieve this by utilising our form builder feature and creating templates to easily input individual preferences, health conditions, and specific goals for each service user.

Platinum6 not only provides a comprehensive digital care plan that enables our clients to assess, review, plan, and implement care for service users, but it also includes essential information such as a service user profile, medical diagnosis and needs, life story, about me form, and more than 40 out-of-the-box risk assessment and care plan templates that cover a wide range of needs, including but not limited to: Emotional psychological social needs, acute care needs, medication needs, dementia, diabetes, nutritional, breathing, smoking, oxygen, personal care, epilepsy, tissue viability, mental capacity, incidents, infections, Body map with the ability to record wounds and monitor them, next of kin, address, date of birth, religion/ cultural and traditional needs, and the required care interventions for a 24 hour period.

Leecare Platinum6 includes out-of-the-box real-time activity charts and data covering a wide range of areas, including but not limited to daily living activities, personal care, repositioning, food and fluid intake, seizure monitoring, oxygen levels, interactions and engagement, staff feedback, doctor and MDT visits, continence tracking, catheter maintenance and flushes, pain monitoring, palliative care, and welfare checks.

Our seamless integration across various care settings enhances continuity and coordination. With our Facility Builder feature, clients can easily access all their facilities at their fingertips and transfer service users or staff as needed. Additionally, our RoleBased Access Control (RBAC) feature allows authorised staff members to view one or multiple facilities based on their permissions.

Proud as we are of our award-winning software, we believe that the ability to deliver exceptional care calls for the human touch as much as technology.

Innovative solutions for monitoring people at risk

Domiciliary care, also known as home care, is support and care delivered to an individual in the comfort of their own home. It is a key part of our healthcare here in the UK, delivering personalised, attentive care to individuals and is continuing to grow every year. It can make day to day living much easier and help people remain in their own home or help ease the transition from hospital back into the comfort of their own home.

Frequency Precision’s founder, Doug Dwyer, was inspired by his own mother’s care needs to create innovative solutions for monitoring people at risk. Doug developed a discreet sensor using air pressure to detect when someone gets out of a bed or chair. This patented invention, now called Airlert, is now widely used in private homes, care homes, and hospitals. It’s a great example of how personal experiences can lead to impactful innovations.

The Airlert pressure sensor technology has a wide range of applications:

: The Airlert bed mat can be used on any type of bed frame and mattress combination with the pressure mat being placed underneath the mattress

where the person sleeps. Different pressure sensors can be connected to the mat, allowing it to detect when a person leaves or occupies a bed and send an alert to carers.

: The Airlert convulsion sensor mat looks and works in a comparable way to the bed mat

but unlike the regular bed pressure mat, is used specifically for people who live with epilepsy to detect the convulsions indicative of someone having a tonic-clonic generalised seizure.

: Airlert chair pressure pads offer the same function as bed mats, with the obvious difference being that they are placed on chairs rather than beds.

: Airlert floor pressure mats are placed on the floor in order to detect foot pressure. They are usually used in a doorway, hallway or next to a bed as a form of fall prevention.

At Frequency Precision, we understand the importance of keeping your loved ones safe and free from harm, which is why we offer a wide range of medical alert devices alongside Airlert technology to help with their care. We pride ourselves on our ability to provide products that make the perfect addition to any healthcare setting, benefitting clients on a national and international scale. Our team of specialists work closely with clients to determine the perfect addition to their healthcare environment.

Contact 01837 810590

Keep on moving

Topro UK is our celebrated Specialist Walker & Premium Walker Company of the Year

Topro UK offers marketleading mobility solutions and an enhanced customer service experience, which goes a long way to explaining the recent accelerated company growth:

“2023 was a year of huge growth for Topro UK and at the beginning of 2024 we were naturally keen to keep this momentum going and it’s great to be able to say the products, our dealers and our own efforts have meant we have continued to flourish and we are going from strength to strength with sales continuing to grow year on year.

“Our Norwegian parent company has invested heavily during this last year in almost every part of Topro UK: with logistics, staffing, products and infrastructure all benefitting. However, something that illustrates the way Topro are investing long-term and not just for the immediate moment is our ongoing work on clinical validation on our Taurus product: validating our products within the NHS led to us being

eligible for a poster at the British Orthopaedic Association Congress and this important work is continuing to progress” explains Terence Clark: UK Country Manager.

Topro UK, owned by Topro Industri AS, has its head office in Nottingham in the East Midlands and is a wholly-owned subsidiary specialising in the manufacturing and distributing of walkers and rollators supplying direct to the public sector/NHS or via a dealership network to clients for personal use.

With a history originally dating back to 1964 in Gjøvik, Norway, Topro continues to base its manufacturing plant there. Topro proudly champions sustainable Nordic manufacturing and invests heavily in leading R&D to safeguard its industryleading product portfolio.

Topro supply genuine premium walking aids, with rollators as the primary product. With an unwavering commitment to R&D, the products have all been carefully designed and built by technicians in Norway to provide answers to the issues experienced by users. Many customers have painful wrists and have asked for more intuitive ways to open rollators ready for use.

The long-term goals are to become firstly: the first-choice premium products- offering more to dealers and end-users. Secondly, to continue to grow the extensive dealer network with quality dealers who want to connect and engage with end-users and are willing to go the extra mile to ensure users purchase the correct product first time.

Topro have an extensive leading product range available to all end-users, including the exceptional Topro Hestia Indoor Rollator and Topro Troja 5G.

The Hestia is a foldable, indoor rollator loved by end-users for its empowering, independent features such as:

: Precision-versatile engineering for safe locomotion, comfortable standing up and sitting down and safe transportation of meals and other items

: One-handed brake operation

: Modern and sleek ergonomic design

: Removable tray with handle

: Tray has a drinks holder, which slides towards the user

: Convenient slot for iPad and secures in place

: Practical and discreet bag under tray

: Compact and easy to fold

: Available in stylish silver, red and special edition turquoise

If you’re looking for the optimised indoor rollator: the Topro Hestia is built from leading Scandinavian design and offers dignified independence every day.

The Topro Troja 5G rollator is a ‘rollator of choice’ for many end-users due to its winning modern design and enhanced safety features:

: Shock absorbing tyres: many rollators are painful to use over time with the bumps we feel from roads and pavements creating pressure in the wrists of users, not the 5G which is designed to be used for long periods of time in comfort

: Brakes that work on the inside of the wheel not the outside of the tyre as most other designs do, this dramatically improves the brakes and the client safety all the time but particularly in the wet.

: Flexible and ergonomically

designed handgrips giving the user confidence and alleviating the pain poor support brings.

: Quick release wheels all around

: User-friendly height adjustment, which automatically stops and the present height, making it easy to use safely and comfortably every time.

: Modern and sleek design, designed to look great and makes the user feel good about using a rollator.

: Good-looking, practical, and removable bag with a zip for security.

: Choice of eight colours plus the convenience of a built-in bell

From shopping with friends, celebration meal with family to exploring neighbourhoods, local and on holiday, this is the rollator for you.

Topro has impressed Healthcare Matters with its unwavering commitment to cutting edge R&D, industry-leading product portfolio and enhanced customer service experience. We asked Terence for his reaction to

Topro being awarded the Specialist Walker & Premium Walker Company of the Year.

“We are delighted and we have informed our Norwegian parent company who are also delighted, and we have received further recognition on our company intranet as a consequence. Our emphasis is on doing the right thing all the time and the right thing isn’t always the easy thing. It’s fantastic when our culture of excellence and diligence is recognised externally.

We are always looking to add value to the

experience the users of our products have, our products enjoy multiple addition features, they answer questions that other rollators do not.

Contact 0115 846 5406 info@topro.co.uk

Vernacare

When procuring new products for your healthcare facility, choosing the right sharps disposal container should be a main consideration. Sharps bins are necessary items for any healthcare setting, also required for a variety of other industries in which sharp items may be used.

At Vernacare, we're experts in the healthcare field, manufacturing a wide range of products to make the lives of caregivers and care receivers easier. We manufacture our own brand of Sharpsafe® containers, produced from high-quality, recycled materials that prioritise safety in healthcare settings.

In this blog, we'll explore the world of sharps disposal containers to help you select the optimum item for your needs. By staying informed, you can make the best decision for your health and safety needs.

The Importance of Sharps Disposal

Sharps disposal bins are essential health and safety devices within healthcare facilities, ensuring the safe disposal of hazardous clinical waste. Medical instruments and equipment with sharp edges or points are referred to as sharps, and these items can be particularly harmful to both people and the environment if not disposed of properly.

This means that the proper disposal and management of sharps waste is crucial for any healthcare facility, ensuring the safety of healthcare workers, patients and the wider community. Sharps containers enable healthcare professionals to safely dispose of sharps products, reducing the risk of infection and injury in healthcare spaces.

How Do I Choose the Right Sharps Disposal Container?

There are a number of different sharps bins on the market at the moment, so it can be difficult to know where to start with your procurement needs. Our Sharpsafe® collection features a number of sizes and openings, covering a wide range of different needs and functions, ensuring every healthcare provider should be able to find something suitable.

Here, we'll go through some of the main factors that should be considered when deciding how to properly dispose of sharps in your healthcare facility.

Examine Your Needs

When it comes to choosing your ideal sharps disposal container, the first step should be to examine your needs. Consider the type of facility you are procuring your items for, which sharps items you’re likely to be disposing of and how much medical waste you go through on a daily basis. Answering these questions is a paramount concern, as understanding the type and volume of sharps you generate will play a key part in your decision.

Different medical facilities will produce varying amounts and types of sharps waste. For example, hospitals and clinics in urban areas may typically generate a higher volume of needles, syringes and other sharps items when compared to a small surgery in a rural village. In busier settings, larger sharps containers may be required, due to the amount of people travelling through the area and the heightened risk of accidents. In public settings, protected access containers with secure lids are essential for ensuring safety and compliance with sharps regulations.

The number of sharps disposal containers required also depends on the needs and size of your healthcare setting. Sharps bins should be adequately placed throughout your facility in locations where sharps waste is usually produced, allowing easy

access for healthcare professionals. The larger your facility, the more containers you’ll need to purchase.

Once you've considered the needs of your healthcare setting, you can move on to the following steps.

Consider Your Accessibility Requirements

When purchasing a new sharps container for disposal, it's important to choose a product that is both safe and easy to handle for healthcare professionals. When handling hazardous waste, ensuring safety is important for anyone in the vicinity of your sharps container. Therefore, an ergonomic design that prioritises the well-being of healthcare professionals and patients is ideal.

Other features you should consider including within your chosen sharps disposal bin include:

: Clear, easy-to-read labelling – Using sharps containers with clear and easy-to-read labelling ensures the instructions for disposing of hazardous waste are easy to follow, reducing the risk of infection or injury.

: Temporary closure – As there is a risk of injury when disposing of sharps waste, a temporary closure feature prevents unauthorised access to your sharps containers, further limiting the probability of injury from occurring.

: Wide openings – Wide apertures make disposing and segregating clinical sharps waste easier – particularly for areas with larger sharps instruments such as theatre.

: Secure carry handles

– Secure carry handles make your sharps disposal containers easy to carry when disposal is required, ensuring they can be moved without the need to touch the base itself.

: Containers that support Directive 2010/32/EU –Directive 2010/32/EU is a directive adopted to prevent healthcare professionals and patients from succumbing to injuries and bloodborne infections from sharp objects.

At Vernacare, we manufacture a wide range of highquality Sharpsafe® disposal containers, with a variety of different sizes available. Our sharps bins are specifically designed to reduce the risk of infection and prevent sharps injuries. This means that you will be able to find something suitable for your needs within our collection.

Regardless of the type of sharps disposal bin used, it’s important that your container is made from high-quality puncture-resistant materials, preventing the risk of sharps injuries from occurring. The containers you choose should also meet the regulations set out by the UN3291, a mandatory requirement that legislates the disposal and transportation of hazardous waste.

Going Green: Sustainable Sharps Disposal Techniques

Environmental considerations have become increasingly important within the medical industry, prompting many healthcare procurers to purchase sustainable products. Not only do these items help to promote an environmentally friendly ethos, but they also enhance safety and regulatory compliance.

We’re pleased to state that our Sharpsafe® containers meet all these requirements, providing a range of accessibility and safety features that exceed compliance needs without compromising on cost or calibre. They also meet the requirements set out in ISO 23907-1:2019, which specifies the requirements for single-use sharps containers intended to hold potentially hazardous sharps medical waste.

As well as ensuring the safety of healthcare professionals, these features also make waste disposal easier, encouraging proper safety protocols to reduce the risk of sharps injuries

Balancing Budget and Quality

Different healthcare facilities operate with varying budgets. However, whilst cost is likely to be a factor, sharps containers made from high-quality materials are imperative, having a direct impact on safety when disposing of sharps waste.

You should assess the volume of waste that is expected to be produced within a specific time frame – once measured, you can then make a decision as to the type of container to use. Larger or multiple sharps containers may be more cost-effective and safety-conscious for healthcare settings producing a greater amount of waste. On the other hand, smaller containers may be preferable for individual caring requirements or a community setting.

When acquiring new sharps containers, sustainability is likely to be a key consideration in your decision-making process.

At Vernacare, we’re pleased to announce our commitment to sustainability, with our 5th Generation Sharpsafe® containers being our most green sharps disposal containers yet. These disposal bins are manufactured from up to 100% recycled material in their bases, without compromising on safety or quality.

The bases of these items and their supported accessories are made from a form of grey recycled plastic, helping to reduce our CO2 emissions by 2,500 tonnes in just three years. Our 5th generation Sharpsafe® disposal boxes are ideal for sustainably-minded healthcare professionals, without compromising the safety considerations of previous container generations.

For more information about our sustainable ethos, please see our dedicated Sustainability page

Find the Perfect Sharps Disposal Container with Vernacare

When working in the healthcare sector, choosing the right sharps disposal container is a crucial part of the procurement process. At Vernacare, we understand the importance of selecting products that meet the criteria laid out in this blog.

By prioritising these factors, healthcare professionals and facilities can confidently choose sharps disposal solutions that align with their operational values and needs. Our range of Sharpsafe® bins combine durability with sustainability, with a large selection of sizes and needs represented within our collection.

If you’d like to find out more, please visit our dedicated Sharpsafe® page: https://vernacare.com/brands/sharpsafe

Shire Controls Ltd: Setting the standard in medical gas alarm systems

In this issue of Healthcare Matters, we are delighted to welcome Shire Controls Ltd as our Medical Gas Alarm Manufacturing Company of the Month

UK-based Shire Controls Ltd has been manufacturing since 1980 and supplies Medical Gas Alarms and Anaesthetic Gas Scavenging System (A.G.S.S) to the hospital sector across the UK and Ireland.

The three manufactured models of Area Alarm are the: SA-6, SAX-6 and newer SAX-D, alongside the Plant Alarm, SDX-15. In addition to the medical Gas Alarms, Shire Controls manufactures the Duplex and Simplex A.G.S.S plant. All Medical Gas Alarms and AGSS are registered medical devices, fully compliant to HTM02-01 and are both UKCA and CE marking, under UK MDR 2002 and EU MDR respectively. All Shire products can be linked to any hospital BMS.

We spoke to Office Manager and Director Greg Gardiner about

how the company has fared over the last twelve months, “We’ve just come back from a successful run at Healthcare Estates 2024, connecting with existing hospital engineers and other partners. The earlier IHEEM AE Conference at Epsom Racecourse was also a success for the company.

“We specialise in alarms for piped medical gases and other related alarm systems, with our alarms found in most hospital Trusts across the UK and Ireland. Medical gas alarm systems essentially monitor the status of the medical gas supply in realtime and detect faults instantly. They are installed in operating theatres, surgery rooms, recovery areas, ICUs, and emergency areas.”

The SAX-6 Area Alarm is a medical gas alarm with many distinguishable features:

: Handy Compact size – The alarm measures 244 mm wide, 178 mm high, and 45 mm deep.

: Simple design connection – The alarm connects to end of line components with just three cores.

: Easy maintenance – The alarm's connections are ‘plug and socket’ and the alarm components can be changed in under two minutes (loved by hospital engineers!)

: LED indicators – The alarm has three LED indicators on the front panel that indicate the alarm status:

: P LED – Indicates pressure switch inputs

: Green LEDs – Indicate normal conditions

: Gas level warnings – The alarm displays gas level warnings if any gas pressure is out of the pre-set operating range

“In the last two years, we have introduced the SAX-D to our hospital customer base. It is a standalone alarm or alternatively can be configured to operate as a repeater to another SAX-D alarm. It can be easily retrofitted to the existing SA-6 or SAX-6 and displays pipeline pressure for up to 6 gases. It is quick and easy to install, with a wireless pressure setting and comes with an early warning alarm condition. It is HTM 02-01 compliant Class 1 Medical Device.

“Our R&D team listened to feedback from hospital engineers and improved the design functionality with the SAX-D and included instructions for the hospital nurses, in the rare event of the alarm going off. Many of the nurses haven’t done a refresher course for years and in a hospital setting, it’s imperative that it’s business as usual at all times. During the height of the COVID pandemic, we were working six days a week to cover demand, including supplying alarms to the seven purpose-built NHS Nightingale Hospitals.”

You spoke, we listened: How

Safehinge Primera’s new electronic lockset is transforming mental health care environments

In the field of mental health care, striking a balance between safety and patient independence has always been an important challenge. As care providers work tirelessly to create supportive environments, the need for practical, reliable solutions that both empower patients and ensure their safety has never been greater. At Safehinge Primera, we’ve taken this challenge head-on, developing the only electronic lockset designed specifically for mental health bedrooms. This innovative product seamlessly integrates into existing access control systems providing an unparalleled blend of efficiency, safety, and patient empowerment.

between life and death. That’s why our lockset is designed to grant entry in seconds, even during power outages or in situations where a door is barricaded. The intuitive override system ensures that caregivers can always gain access quickly and securely.

The efficiency challenge: Time is precious For staff working in demanding mental health environments, time is often a scarce resource. Traditional key management systems are not only cumbersome but also inefficient. In these high-pressure settings, every second spent fumbling for keys is time that could be better spent focusing on patient care.

Our new electronic lockset eliminates the hassle of traditional keys entirely. By integrating directly with systems widely used in mental health environments, the lockset streamlines access management, giving staff the ability to operate within a unified, time-saving framework. This system simplifies operations, allowing staff to dedicate more of their energy to what truly matters, supporting patients on their recovery journey.

Uncompromised safety: Every second counts While efficiency is essential, safety is paramount. In mental health settings, the ability to swiftly access rooms during emergencies can be the difference

This fast response time, coupled with the product’s robust design, offers unparalleled peace of mind to both caregivers and facility managers. Safehinge Primera’s lockset doesn’t just meet safety standards, it redefines them. In moments of crisis, there’s no room for compromise, and our lock helps ensure a rapid response.

For patients, this shift represents more than just convenience – it’s an important step toward reclaiming control in their daily lives. Providing patients with the ability to manage their own space fosters a sense of dignity, freedom, and empowerment, which are crucial elements in a patient's therapeutic journey.

Designed for the real world: No compromises, only solutions

At Safehinge Primera, we understand the complex realities of mental health care environments. Our new lockset is not just another product, it’s a solution built on feedback from those who know these challenges best. We listened to caregivers, facility managers, and patients, and the result is a product that integrates seamlessly into your current system, enhancing both safety and efficiency without compromise.

Empowering patients: The dignity of independence In mental health care, promoting patient independence is key to supporting their recovery and overall well-being. However, traditional keys often become a barrier to this goal, forcing patients to rely on staff for access to their rooms and limiting their autonomy. Safehinge Primera’s electronic lockset changes this dynamic, enabling patients to gain independent access to their rooms without the risks associated with conventional keys in mental health environments. Whats more, the access wristbands we offer as part of the solution are designed with ligature resistant properties.

Whether you’re seeking faster access during emergencies or aiming to create a more patient-centric care environment, Safehinge Primera’s electronic lockset is designed to meet those needs. In today’s world, where mental health care demands innovative solutions, this product is a game changer.

A future of safety and empowerment

As we look to the future, Safehinge Primera remains committed to developing products that improve mental health care environments for both staff and patients. Our electronic lockset is just one example of how innovation can enhance safety, streamline processes, and empower patients in their recovery.

With SHP’s lockset, you get the best of both worlds – our locks, your system, and a future of better outcomes for all.

Our locks, your system, no compromise www.safehingeprimera.com/

Company of the Month

Company of the Month, leading interpreting and translating services in Northern Ireland, Diversity NI

We

are

delighted

to

reveal that Diversity NI is our Company of the Month for October

Founded by Paolina Hawthorne in 2010, Diversity NI is the largest interpreting and translation service in NI, offering in-person and telephone interpreting, plus certified translation services.

Northern Ireland, like the rest of the UK is wonderfully multicultural, with many different languages spoken daily. The 2021 Northern Irish Census identified 54,500 residents stated that English was not their main language. The most prevalent languages other than English in the Census were Polish, Lithuanian, Romanian, Portuguese and Irish.

Therefore, when it comes to healthcare, it is essential that interpreters provide precise translations between health professionals and patients.

Spotlight on Diversity NI

Diversity NI Ltd is an accredited OCN Centre providing professional Interpreting and Translation Services in Belfast, Northern Ireland for a wide range of Private and Public Sector clients. Diversity NI provide language interpreting services in over 200 languages and have a database of 500 fully qualified, tested, monitored and quality-controlled interpreters.

Diversity NI can cater to large multilingual conferences and to small one-to-one business meetings and interviews, there is no requirement Diversity NI cannot meet.

Healthcare services

Diversity NI understands the sensitive and discrete nature of its work, which is why all interpreters thoroughly research individual client cases in advance, to understand technical language and terminology.

Scale of work

Diversity NI operate a professional working database of over 500 interpreters, across 200 languages. including many central and eastern European languages, South East Asian languages such as Bengali and Gujarati, through to Swahili, Farsi, Arabic and Mandarin.

The organisation provides support for clients who need urgent translating support. From pre-booked appointments, emergency telephone bookings, or quality assured, timely written translations, Diversity NI can connect its clients with an interpreter in less than 60 seconds and offer up to two hours of faceto-face interpretation, with no pre booking required and no minimum charges.

Diversity also offers interpretation services across remote communications platforms such as Microsoft Teams, Zoom, Webex and Sightlink. For face-to-face interpreting, Diversity NI use an online booking platform to reduce response times and speed up meeting confirmations for clients.

Each of its professional interpreters adhere

to a strict code of practice. The service is quality-controlled and managed to ensure that all translation requirements are carried out effectively and efficiently.

Bespoke training programs to address specific needs of staff and patient population

Diversity NI works with organisations to help tailor preferred learning outcomes and targets.

"At Diversity NI, we offer comprehensive training for healthcare professionals on accessing interpreting services effectively. Our program covers key areas such as working with interpreters, recognising potential challenges and ensuring accurate interpretation, whilst navigating cultural differences in diverse communities.

“We also equip professionals with the skills to manage interpreting sessions efficiently and maintain high standards of communication across cultural and language barriers,” explains Paolina Hawthorne, Managing Director of Diversity NI.

Future plans

Diversity NI is investing over £100,000 over the next three years in its state-of-the-art booking platforms to allow faster and easier processes for clients to secure interpreters in person, online or over the phone.

Bluewater to revolutionise UK drinking water dispenser market with launch of Bluewater Flow

Bluewater, a world leader in innovative water purification and beverage solutions, has launched its innovative solution for high-quality drinking water dispensers in the UK, the Bluewater Flow.

Already a smash hit in the USA with over 14,000 installations, the Bluewater Flow sets a new standard across the UK and Ireland for dispensing on-demand pure, great-tasting water in offices, gyms,

hospitals, and schools that is free from potential contaminants such as toxic PFAS chemicals or waterborne germs.

The self-sanitising, free-standing Bluewater Flow indoor refill stations are designed for simple installation and connect to any potable water line within a 100 foot range for easy replacement of existing water fountains, water coolers, and large jug dispensers. Users can enjoy chilled or hot fast-flowing water that undergoes a revitalising process including the infusion of electrolytes, increased alkalinity, oxygenation, and trace minerals, providing a crisp, fresh, great-tasting hydration experience.

friendly access to clean water, the Bluewater Flow is a top seller in the United States at premium brands such as Red Bull, Apple, Marriott, and Google.

Bluewater key account sales manager Antonio Tedeschi describes the Bluewater Flow indoor station as “a game-changer for the UK and Ireland’s drinking water dispenser industry.”

Contact 07785 302694

Bluewater Flow 7 x Advanced Purification uses an existing water source and removes up to 99% of any impurities that can be found in typical tap water. Offering reliable and eco-

david.noble@bluewatergroup.com www.mynewsdesk.com/bluewater www.bluewatergroup.com

Modular wiring: Transforming

Apex Wiring Solutions Sales Director, Paul Hopps, outlines how the leading modular wiring manufacturer is helping revolutionise construction of healthcare facilities and champions the many benefits modular wiring offers the sector.

With over two decades of experience in the electrical industry, Paul has spent more than 15 years at Apex, delivering innovative and reliable wiring solutions across various sectors, with a strong focus on healthcare.

Spearheading many successful projects in the sectorincluding Bournemouth and Poole Women and Children’s Hospital, Royal London Hospital, and Queen Alexandra in Portsmouth – he recognises the need for rapid, reliable and safe wiring installations to help ease pressure on the NHS, still recovering from the impacts of the pandemic.

We sat down with Paul to discuss the evolution of modular wiring systems and find out about the essential roles it plays in ensuring hospital builds are being delivered on time and on budget.

“Our work at Apex is really diverse and while many of our contracts involve large-scale, multi-million-pound builds, we also take on architecturally sensitive regeneration projects that demand a high level of care and bespoke solutions.

“However, I’ve always had a particular focus on the healthcare sector. From overseeing the sales strategy to directly engaging with clients to understand the unique needs of every development, I’m fascinated by the challenges posed by every project that comes our way,” Paul said.

“Apex has spent the best part of four decades

St Bart’s Hospital, London

The successful 10 year redevelopment of Britain’s oldest hospital saw Apex play a pivotal role in enhancing the infrastructure and reducing the carbon footprint via modular wiring.

Apex seamlessly integrated modular solutions into the project in collaboration with Skanska and other key stakeholders, ensuring installation aligned perfectly with client needs, contributing to the project’s success.

By leveraging leading-edge wiring solutions, Apex reduced carbon emissions as well as energy costs and modernised the development’s electrical system. These are just some of the benefits that going modular yielded.

Apex enhanced operational efficiency, freeing up valuable resources redirected towards patient care.

refining, updating and adding innovation to our wiring solutions. Not only are we masters of delivering exactly what each customer needs, but we’re also master problem solvers. Every project is different, but you can guarantee that each one will pose a unique challenge that we’ll need to overcome and healthcare facilities are no different.

“It’s fair to say that modular wiring is perfect for the health sector, in which rapid, reliable solutions not only help initial builds, but also make any future maintenance, extensions or repairs easier. By eliminating the complexities of traditional 'twin and earth' wiring methods and incorporating the prefabricated elements of our 'plug-and-play' design, we significantly simplify projects.”

Flexible and efficient

The quick and easy installation of every component ensures reduced man-hours on site, aiding build programmes, however it’s the system’s reliability that is so vital in healthcare helping ensure smooth operations, patient wellbeing and efficient service delivery. The powering critical equipment and communication systems.

The shift from traditional methods to modular wiring has been transformative, streamlining installation and enhancing the overall safety, efficiency, and flexibility of projects. Manufacturing ready-made components in a controlled environment reduces on-site labour, minimises disruption, and ensures consistent quality.

Modular also allows electrical systems to be adaptable, in an environment where changes and expansions are commonplace and traditional methods can fail to keep up.

“In such a dynamic environment, adaptability is crucial and modular allows us to easily reconfigure or change electricals systems to accommodate new equipment, layout changes or tech advancements.

“It’s essentially future-proofing healthcare infrastructure,” said Paul.

Safety and compliance

Paramount in healthcare facilities is patient safety and wellbeing, as well as ensuring regulatory compliance.

Apex emphasises that modular systems adhere to strict safety standards and codes in order to minimise risk of electrical failures, fire hazard and operational disruptions, putting all modular systems through rigorous testing and certification processes to ensure safety standards are met or exceeded.

Bournemouth and Poole Women and Children’s Hospital Apex won the supply and install of modular wiring at Bournemouth and Poole Women and Children’s Hospital, due for completion in 2025.

Further solidifying its reputation as trusted supplier to healthcare facilities, Apex worked with contractors, IHP and W Portsmouth, ensuring the project benefited from the seamless integration of modular solutions.

Modular systems will enhance the facility’s infrastructure and optimise patient care, providing an efficient, adaptable electrical system.

The Apex team ensured quality, reliability and safety for the project from start to finish.

Transforming healthcare projects...

Paul said, “In our industry, it’s safety above all else. We make sure everything that arrives on site is as safe as it can possibly be for patients and professionals. The whole process from manufacture to installation is hands-on to ensure consistent quality and welfare before the project is complete.”

Streamlined maintenance

All Apex’s modular systems are designed with simplicity and safety front of mind, from installation to maintenance to upgrades, “going modular” makes the process easier than with traditional methods.

Thanks to modular, maintenance of electrical systems in

healthcare facilities becomes systematic and less disruptive – components are universal and future-proofed, easily accessed to replace, which helps to minimise downtime and optimise efficiency.

“Older wiring methods require disassembly and troubleshooting to find any issues – you’re regularly chasing multiple cables around and finding all sorts of badly-finished connections, whereas with modular everything arrives on site cut the correct lengths, with the correct components, all ready to instal. And in the unlikely event there are any glitches, we can quickly identify, locate and repair faults with minimal disruption,” Paul said.

Going modular also facilitates upgrades as healthcare developments evolve to meet new standards. These systems offer the flexibility to adapt without significant downtime, enabling technology upgrades and infrastructure expansions to be completed quickly and efficiently.

Sunshine Coast University Hospital, Australia Apex provided modular wiring solutions to the Queensland Tertiary and Teaching Hospital when the project developer recognised Apex’s expertise, trusting the team to ensure timely delivery of essential electrical services.

Faced with the obvious geographical challenges, Apex leveraged its global network to streamline the process, overcoming hurdles, delivering seamless project execution.

Thanks to modular solutions, the Sunshine Coast University Hospital was equipped with reliable and efficient electrical services, ensuring it provides high-quality healthcare.

Apex is committed to innovation, excellence and customer satisfaction, with this project further strengthening their position as a leader in the industry.

Sustainability

As the world strives to become more environmentally friendly, pressure is on everyone to reduce carbon output.

Traditional wiring is characterised by its inefficiency and high levels of waste, whereas modular systems are designed with the environment in mind.

Prefabricated components minimise waste during manufacture and installation. Modular systems eliminate the need for excess materials and on-site assembly, reducing resource consumption and generating less waste overall.

“We all must think differently to address the climate crisis. Promoting efficient use of resources and reducing the environmental impact, healthcare facilities can contribute to broader sustainability goals as well as enhance their own operational efficiency,” Paul said.

“Apex is committed to sustainable practices in everything we do, & the utilisation of modular instead of traditional ensures long-term sustainable solutions and a healthier future for generations to come.”

An innovative force in modular, Apex has been driving advances in the healthcare sector for many years, with commitment to quality, innovation and customer satisfaction.

Founded in Durham in 1980, Apex has forged a global reputation for the supply of cable, cable assemblies and accessories for high and low-level power distribution systems.

With a fully trained and qualified team of experts, the business provides first class service, developing and delivering solutions across the globe. Apex boasts a 160,000ft2 HQ in Durham City, with overseas operations in the UAE and Australia.

With continuous investment in connector technology and manufacturing techniques, Apex Wiring completes the entire manufacturing process from design to supply.

Through streamlined manufacturing techniques and world-class facilities, it supplies systems of the highest standards to all construction sectors globally.

“From hospitals to vast manufacturing facilities, and urban regeneration to Olympic athlete accommodation, our team of experts works closely with clients to understand their needs from start to finish, ensuring quality and seamless installation. Apex is setting new standards for excellence in healthcare construction,” Paul said.

Contact

+44 (0)191 378 7900 info@apexwiringsolutions.co.uk www.apexwiringsolutions.co.uk

The 160,000m2 project faced numerous logistical challenges, that Apex was selected to help overcome, providing modular solutions to the 727-bed facility to allow electrical activity across all areas of the hospital.

The size and complexity of the project presented challenges, such as coordinating installations across vast areas and implementing modular systems within existing building work.

Apex utilised its modular system which offers flexibility, scalability and easy installation in collaboration with Skanska, mitigating challenges and ensuring the client’s requirements were met.

This project was significant in the healthcare landscape due to being home of the Air Ambulance and housing Europe’s largest renal service.

The dedication and expertise of Apex’s team saw the successful execution of this project, highlighting Apex’s capacity to meet the unique needs of healthcare facilities globally.

Royal London Hospital

New healthcare facility for Norwich hospital

Cramlington-based Merit, the UK’s leading industrialised construction and digital manufacturing specialist, has transported its first Air Handling Unit (AHU POD) to the site delivering a new therapy-led rehabilitation unit at Norwich Community Hospital.

Weighing 20.5 tonnes, Merit’s AHU POD is the first offsite component of the building to be delivered, after travelling 300 miles from the North East to Norfolk.

Earlier this year, Merit announced the multi-million-pound project with Norfolk Community Health and Care NHS Trust. By utilising its 4D BIM modelling technology and using the new V6 UltraPOD®

SFS Variant, Merit’s expert team can deliver the new unit by August 2024, guaranteeing a faster, more cost-effective project schedule with sustainability in mind.

The project will be the first of its kind using Merit’s new V6 UltraPOD®

SFS Variant, an extension to the already effective UltraPOD®, which has been successfully deployed to other healthcare, biotech and pharmaceutical facilities across the UK, including Berwick’s long-awaited new, 10,500m2, £35m community hospital and Solihull Hospital’s new Elective Hub (Operating Theatre Block).

To meet ever changing and increasing demands, the V6 UltraPOD®

SFS Variant utilises Merit’s latest roll former, panel line production system to enhance affordability and accessibility through a significantly reduced programme. The V6 platform comes as standard, rated BREEAM Excellent as a minimum, EPC-A, and energy consumption is 69% lower than the current CIBSE hospital benchmarks.

How solar panels work and how to optimise their performance...

To protect the future of the environment and the industry, there is a need to find zero or low-carbon solutions for all areas of the built environment. Solar lighting in its own right continues to be of substantial interest to the street lighting community to meet these sustainability goals. The application of solar street lighting has been in place for some time and there are a large range of options currently available. But to understand and design a system that can operate in the UK successfully and understanding of the science and different parameters is desirable.

As technology advances rapidly in both energy conversation and energy storage, the following, are important considerations to make when it comes to optimising solar energy.

How do solar panels work?

Solar energy is produced through solar panels, made from photovoltaic cells which convert the sun’s energy into electricity.

Photovoltaic cells are located between layers of silicon, and when the sun shines onto a panel, energy from the sunlight is absorbed by the cells. This creates an electrical field, known as the photoelectric

effect, which produces the current of electricity.

This current is passed through an inverter and can be used to power homes, businesses and much more.

The advantages of solar energy...

Solar energy is a far more sustainable energy source as it produces electricity from sunlight, without the use of fossil fuels or other limited natural materials.

There is a significant reduction in carbon emissions from the process of solar energy compared to fossil fuels. No noise pollution is created and no toxic fumes are emitted from the panels into the environment. This makes solar panels a safe and sustainable energy source that can be installed in a wide range of both urban and rural locations.

How to enhance solar energy...

Silicon is the most common semiconductor material used in solar panels, yet this material can only absorb a portion of photons. There is a maximum efficiency potential called the S-Q limit (Shockley Queisser) of a

single-junction solar cell, which is around 30%. The majority of solar panels used today are ‘passive emitter rear cell’ (PERC) construction and have an efficiency of around 20-23%.

Halide perovskite (PVSK) is an alternative solar cell material with a different bandgap. Development has been ramping up to combine these two materials, silicon and PVSK, to increase the combined efficiency to over 45% utilising a greater energy spectrum.

One of the key advantages of perovskite is that it works well under low-light conditions. Currently, this material is not in commercial production, however, the UK is leading the way with this new technology and the first megawatt of production is well in progress.

The next generation when it comes to solar cell technology is nano-structured semiconductors, amorphous silicon, and printable solar panels.

The advantages of these technologies are in their potential for low-cost production and novel new applications; however, life expectancy will play a key role in their adoption.

One company leading the charge in this field is OG2 Lighting,

a designer, manufacturer and installer of solar solutions.

The future developments of solar...

Another development and innovation in solar cell technology is ‘thin film’ materials used for flexible cells; cadmium telluride (CdTe) or copper indium gallium selenide (CIGS).

OG2 have developed a product range that will change the direction of residential, amenity and street lighting for a wide range of applications.

Discover more about OG2’s solar solutions here: www.ogtwo.com or email: info@og2lighting.com

design build façades, overcladding specialist

Providing a turnkey service to decarbonise the UK’s legacy estate, saving +80% of heating energy, through a fabric first approach, to sustainably transform the built environment to reflect the excellence of services provided within, extending the buildings’ life expectancy and providing desirable accommodation for future generations, all while buildings remain fully operational.

Energy Performance Services

On 1 July 2022, the NHS became the first health system to embed net zero carbon emissions into legislation through the Health and Care Act 2022 with a target of net zero by 2040 for emissions under direct control. Buildings alone are responsible for 30% of the UK’s entire carbon emissions and 4/5ths of building energy is attributable to heating energy loss through the external fabric of substandard building envelopes.

Environmental performance and sustainability are imperatives which recognise the importance of addressing climate change. In seeking to decarbonise the

built environment, a portfolio of interventional measures is required including indirect carbonsaving tools such as heat pumps, solar PV, LED lighting etc, however the greatest single impact is conferred by thermal efficiency of building envelopes

Decarbonising the built estate through a fabric first approach, is readily integrated with leading energy service companies (ESCOs) combining strengths and expertise with our partners to deliver outstanding integrated solutions.

The BSA requires Clients to carefully select and appoint only demonstrably competent parties with clear roles and responsibilities to ensure compliance to deliver higher risk projects. design build façades provide single point responsibility for all project outcomes and empirical evidence of demonstrable competency by reference to their unsurpassed Skills, Knowledge, Experience and Behaviours (SKEB), with over 150no completed Design Build Overcladding

Synbiotix X-Porter: Revolutionising task management & asset tracking in healthcare

T

he Synbiotix X-Porter system is an end-to-end digital task management software with innovative features to help streamline hospital operations. In partnership with Living Map, Synbiotix is transforming the way hospitals track essential assets, such as wheelchairs and stretchers. This integration enables real-time tracking, ensuring equipment is always where it’s needed most, enhancing patient care and operational efficiency.

X-Porter seamlessly integrates with existing PAS and RIS systems as well as third party data analytic tools such as Power BI, allowing for smooth data flow between departments and enhancing decision making across all teams.

The system supports a Total Facilities Management package where Porter, Domestic, Security, Linen & Catering tasks can all

be logged by clinical teams and managed by facilities teams within the same platform and with the upcoming plans to introduce new Portering Standards across NHS England Synbiotix can ensure that with X-Porter you are fully compliant and in-line with these standards.

projects and 25 years continued performance with zero failures and zero litigation, our customers are assured positive outcomes. Click here to see how the process worked at Aintree University Hospital.

Contact: Cliff Woodhouse 07894 256471 cliff@dbfacades.com www.dbfacades.com

Construction partner completes two refurbs

Complete construction partner

Stepnell has finished two refurbishment projects for the University of Southampton, enhancing support for teaching and residential provision ahead of the start of the next academic year.

The refurbishment of the Nightingale Building, part of the university’s School of Health Sciences, has reconfigured existing areas and created new rooms to provide modern training facilities and mockup wards. These meet the latest NHS specification for teaching programs across nursing, midwifery, physiotherapy, podiatry, and cardiac physiology.

Stepnell completed design adjustments in collaboration with the design team and client stakeholders, prioritising energy efficiency considerations, diverting 96% of waste from landfill and a strong focus on utilising local suppliers, sourcing two thirds of contractors from within 30 miles of the site.

Stepnell has also completed a multi-million pound refurbishment of the university’s Old Terrace student accommodation at the Glen Eyre halls of residence, ready to meet the needs

of the university’s growing student population.

The comprehensive refurbishment, completed over a 24-week programme, includes a complete replacement of communal kitchens, reconfiguring communal washrooms into self-contained pods with showers, WCs, and toilets, as well as external refurbishments. Early contractor engagement, detailed surveys, and strategic procurement planning allowed Stepnell to de-risk main works packages and secure necessary materials with long lead times.

Innovative solutions for compliant disposal of controlled drugs

Manage waste medicines easily, safely & effectively

Alpha Laboratories Ltd supplies the Controlled Drug Kits from Safer Options that provide a safe, efficient, and compliant method of denaturing or completely destroying controlled drugs prior to disposal, as required under UK legislation.

The Misuse of Drugs Regulations (2001), stipulates that obsolete controlled drugs (CDs) must be destroyed by being denatured and rendered irretrievable, before being placed into pharmaceutical waste containers. Controlled drugs such as opiates (morphine, methadone, pethidine), ketamine, temazepam, barbiturates, and cannabisbased medicines are at risk of being diverted and misused if not rendered irretrievable before disposal. The saferdenature™ and saferdestruct24™ kits address this critical need by helping hospitals, pharmacies, hospices, care homes, and other healthcare providers to safely manage waste medicines and comply with legislation.

Each kit is easy to use, featuring water-soluble sachets that contain the denaturing formula both reducing dust contamination and protecting against accidental spillage. Waste medicines, including tablets, liquids, and patches, are placed in the jar along with the water-soluble sachet. Water is added to the designated level, and the jar is closed and shaken to mix the formula with the controlled drugs. The denaturing/destruction process begins within minutes, and after 48 hours, the kit can be safely placed in a secure pharmaceutical waste container for incineration. In addition, the formula has a bitter taste, acting as an additional deterrent against misuse.

saferdestruct24 is the most advanced formula, and is scientifically proven to destroy 100% of morphine molecules within 24 hours. It also provides a colour change to visually confirm that drug destruction is taking place, offering complete confidence in controlled drug disposal procedures, even in high-risk environments.

The products are manufactured in the UK to the highest standards and are offered in a range of volumes from 250ml to 20L, to meet the diverse needs of healthcare providers.

For more information about Safer Options CD Disposal Kits, or to buy directly visit the website. Also available at NHS Supply Chain.

Contact +44 (0)2380 483000 info@alphalabs.co.uk www.alphalabs.co.uk

Clinical Pharmacy Congress: The Home of Clinical Pharmacy

For over a decade, the Clinical Pharmacy Congress has attracted healthcare professionals from various disciplines, all eager to enhance their knowledge and skills through an extensive, complimentary educational programme.

This was the 13th edition of this esteemed event, continuing the tradition of excellence at ExCeL in London from 10-11 May 2024 – a tailor-made experience designed specifically for clinical pharmacy professionals.

The Clinical Pharmacy Congress offers a unique array of benefits to attendees:

: Complimentary Access to an Exquisite Exhibition – The exhibition is meticulously curated for healthcare professionals specialising in clinical pharmacy, offering a comprehensive showcase of the latest products and services in the field.

: Engaging Multi-Track Conference Programme – Delve into a diverse range of topics relevant to clinical pharmacy

professionals with the multi-track conference programme, all at no cost. Whether you're focused on clinical or non-clinical roles within the field, there's something for everyone.

: Continuing Professional Development (CPD) Opportunities – Elevate professional credentials with CPD credits, provided free of charge. The show caters to both clinical and non-clinical roles within clinical pharmacy, ensuring that all attendees can benefit from educational offerings.

: Seamless Networking Experience –Forge meaningful connections with fellow professionals using the dedicated event mobile app. From pre-event engagement to post-event follow-ups, the platform ensures that networking remains effortless and effective.

The Clinical Pharmacy Congress, now in its 13th edition, remains the pinnacle event for professionals in the field. For over a decade, it has served as the paramount platform where the entire industry converges, offering

unparalleled opportunities for networking, learning, and professional development. As the sector continues to evolve rapidly, staying connected and informed is paramount, and CPC ensures visitors have access to everything they need to thrive.

Key highlights of The Clinical Pharmacy Congress:

: More than 160 hours worth of FREE clinical and non-clinical primary healthcare-related education.

: Access to over 250+ expert speakers from across the NHS and other Arms Length Bodies.

: The opportunity to 'try before you buy' across a broad spectrum of medical products and technological solutionsshowcased by more than 100+ exhibiting companies – designed to help your practice improve patient outcomes and increase practice efficiencies.

: A chance to connect and re-connect with more than 3,000+ of your pharmacy professional colleagues and peers.

Clinical Pharmacy Congress returns next year to London’s ExCeL from 9-10 May 2025. This is our pick of the best exhibitors from this year’s event, listed here in alphabetical order: Abloy, Genetech Pharmaceuticals, Morph Training, Pharma Storage Solutions & VISUfarma. Further details can be found on this page and the next two.

Contact

Review - Top Exhibitors

Healthcare solutions

ABLOY’s solutions for the healthcare sector prioritise security, flexibility, and compliance, ensuring that facilities protect patients, staff, and sensitive areas. Two standout products in this space are PROTEC2 CLIQ Electromechanical Key System and the KL100 Access Control Locker Lock, which offer tailored security for a variety of healthcare environments.

PROTEC2 CLIQ is a versatile access control system that combines electronic and mechanical locking, providing healthcare facilities with high-level security for critical areas such as drug storage, patient records, and restricted zones. It allows for easy management of access rights, with the ability to instantly revoke or update keys remotely, ensuring that only authorised personnel can access secure areas at any given time. This system also

generates audit trails, supporting compliance with stringent healthcare regulations.

The KL100, a compact electronic locker lock, is ideal for personal storage solutions within hospitals and clinics. Offering RFID access, it ensures quick and secure management of lockers for staff, patients, and visitors. The KL100’s sleek design and user-friendly interface make it an excellent solution for environments where hygiene and ease of use are critical.

Both products were recently showcased at the Clinical Pharmacy Congress, highlighting their importance in enhancing security within the healthcare sector.

MORPh Training

MORPh Training provides free clinical training, with a focus on primary care, specifically designed for pharmacists. However, all registered healthcare professionals (HCPs) are welcome to join our sessions. We deliver a blend of webinars and face-toface training, offering practical, hands-on experience, including device demonstrations and realworld case studies. Our goal is to equip HCPs with the skills and knowledge they need to improve patient care and stay up to date with the latest developments in healthcare.

and convenient solution. Our sessions are designed by experts and tailored to meet the evolving needs of primary care professionals, helping them make a tangible difference in their practice.

See a full list of free training events here

Creating a free MORPh account takes less than two minutes and grants access to our entire range of training events. Whether you are looking to enhance your clinical skills or explore new healthcare developments, MORPh Training offers a flexible

MORPh is now the largest provider of free primary care training in the UK with over 15,000 pharmacists on our network. Join us today by creating an account on the MORPh website.

Or get in touch by emailing: william@morphconsultancy. co.uk

Generating savings with your Dry Eye products while delivering quality and value with Xailin® and

TREHAPAN®

While the usage of Dry Eye products haven’t largely increased over the last 10 years, the costs have increased by 68% because of the move from preserved Hypromellose and Carbomer to preservative free Hyaluronic Acid (HA). We’re pleased to say you can use the gold standard HA preservative free products for much reduced costs – here are 3 options from VISUfarma: : Xailin® Tears (0.1% Sodium Hyaluronate); : Xailin® Plus (0.2% Sodium Hyaluronate); & : TREHAPAN® (Trehalose 3%, Sodium hyaluronate 0.15% and D-panthenol 2%).

They are all:

: Continuity for the patients previously using other brands that are also preservative and phosphate free (studies have shown that in the presence of epithelial keratopathy a high concentration of phosphates can lead to corneal calcification).4

: Provides cost savings versus other similar brands.5,6

: Part of the attractive VISUfarma Dry Eye dispensing manufacturer discount scheme.

: VISUfarma has already ensured we operate as a Carbon Net Zero partner within the UK.

: VISUfarma also operates as a plastic neutral supplier by partnering with Plastic Bank. We guarantee that VISUfarma UK will offset any usage of our product’s plastic footprint.

If you have any questions relating to the products or potential savings, please contact us at: ukcustomerservices@visufarma.com or call us on 0113 468 0661.

References

1. Xailin Tears Instructions for Use (IFU)

2. Xailin Plus Instructions for Use (IFU)

3. TREHAPAN Instructions for Use (IFU)

4. Bernauer Wet al. Klin Monatsbl Augenheilkd 2007; 224: 249–251.

: Presented in a 10ml bottle (OSD system device) designed to deliver a single drop with each application, limiting waste. : Preservative free, phosphate free and contact lens friendly (like many of your currently prescribed brands).1-3

VISUfarma UK is proud to now operate as a Carbon and Plastic Net Zero company.

5. VISUfarma Data on File, September 2024.

6. MIMS www.MIMS.co.uk last accessed September 2024.

* Compared to Hylo-Tear® ** Compared to Hylo-Forte® *** Compared to Thealoz® Duo

Partnerships always work! Top Exhibitor at Clinical Pharmacy Congress 2024

Pharma Storage Solutions (PSS) is a market-leading pharmacy design and build company, supplying turnkey solutions for pharmacies across the UK and internationally. The Lancashire-based company supplies and installs UK manufactured products and systems to pharmacies in hospitals, high street chemists, community pharmacies, dispensing GP surgeries and veterinary practices.

The turnkey solutions provider proudly showcased its new partnership with GPi Britannia at The Clinical Pharmacy Congress (CPC) from 10-11 May 2024 at London’s ExCeL. Together the two companies are providing a full service to hospitals and clinics with turnkey cutting-edge pharmacy equipment services. GPi debuted its next-level RIEDL Phasys Robotic Warehouse.

This automated wireless system looks set to revolutionise pharmacies, with a focus on never-seen-before efficiency. As we enter Industry 4.0 and even Industry 5.0, the pharmacy industry is seeking the best digital solutions to sustain future growth and GPi offer industry-leading robotics.

Robotics is the icing on the pharmacy cake but for some pharmacies, having access to ergonomic design and build solutions for small spaces is the first port of call. PSS provides

the following comprehensive storage drawers and shelving systems: PSS equipment, unit options, lockable steel cabinets, Pharmastore 300 rotating units, bulk storage and stores racking, tote and ward bag storage units.

With an expertise spanning back 20 years, PSS takes care of everything from site surveys, initial plans, design, planning and implementation to installation, all compliant with the National Patient Safety Agency. With tight pharmacy spaces, PSS utilise 3D CGI floor plans and scaled layouts to maximise pharmacy and work environments in every project.

PSS is no stranger to tight NHS deadlines

Genetech Pharmaceuticals

Genetech Pharmaceuticals, established in 2019 under the leadership of our Managing Director, Luke Lowrie, has quickly earned a reputation for reliability, efficiency, and professionalism in the pharmaceutical wholesale sector. Specialising in exports, Genetech supplies pharmaceutical products globally, ensuring consistent quality and timely delivery to meet the diverse needs of healthcare providers worldwide.

In response to the increasing demands and supply chain challenges, Genetech Pharmaceuticals expanded its operations in 2023 to include the procurement of unlicensed imports. This strategic decision aimed to address shortages within the UK healthcare system, particularly in NHS hospitals across England, Wales, and Scotland. By sourcing and supplying approved unlicensed medications, Genetech Pharmaceuticals has played a crucial role in ensuring that hospitals have access to essential treatments, thereby supporting patient care initiatives.

medication shortages across the UK. Kushal’s proactive approach has been instrumental in ensuring that hospitals continue to provide uninterrupted patient care, aligning with Genetech's commitment to supporting healthcare providers during these challenging times.

As of 2024, Genetech Pharmaceuticals has expanded its reach significantly, now servicing over 150 hospitals across the UK. This expansion underscores Genetech's commitment to safe and efficient pharmaceutical supply chain management, prioritising the well-being of patients by ensuring uninterrupted access to vital medications.

for full pharmacy refits, refurbishment or new dispensary installations and has worked with many major hospitals such as City Hospital Nottingham, Burnley Hospital, South Tyneside and Sunderland NHS Hospital and many more. Longstanding clients have commented on the quick installation turnaround, professional services, improved workflow and positive feedback from patients too – it's no wonder then that PSS is the ‘supplier of choice’ for many loyal customers:

“We worked cohesively with Richard and his team throughout our dispensary refit project, from initial ideas, to final design and installation. PSS are superb to work with: accommodating, dedicated, professional and excellent at providing a solution to specific dispensary needs.” Practice Manager, Uppingham Surgery.

To start your pharmacy design and build journey today with one of the UK’s best trusted suppliers, contact Director, Richard Kay, today: 01704 823600 07703 794600 richard@pharmacystoragesolutions. co.uk https://pharmacystoragesolutions. co.uk

Our NHS team at Genetech Pharmaceuticals has streamlined its operations to meet the specific needs of NHS hospitals, leveraging knowledge to ensure compliance and efficiency in medication supply. Our team has a proactive approach and have been instrumental in maintaining Genetech's high standards of service and reliability, contributing significantly to the company's growth and impact in the healthcare sector.

Looking ahead, Genetech Pharmaceuticals remains dedicated to innovation and excellence in pharmaceutical distribution.

Kushal Patel joined Genetech Pharmaceuticals in 2023 to lead our NHS operations. As a qualified Pharmacy Technician, Kushal brings extensive experience and a deep understanding of the healthcare system, enabling him to effectively address the unique needs of hospitals. His expertise allows him to identify critical shortages and ensure that alternative treatments are in place, helping to mitigate the impact of ongoing

Natalie Brown-Hunter joined Genetech Pharmaceuticals, NHS procurement team in January 2024 as the UK Sales & Commercial Manager. With a wealth of experience in the pharmaceutical sector, Natalie brings invaluable expertise in understanding hospital requirements and forging strong relationships within the industry. Her role involves overseeing the efficient delivery of approved unlicensed imported medications to NHS hospitals, navigating regulatory requirements and negotiating competitive pricing to optimise procurement strategies.

By continuing to expand its capabilities and adapt to evolving market demands, Genetech Pharmaceuticals aims to strengthen its position as a trusted partner in UK, Scotland, and Wales pharmaceutical supply, supporting healthcare providers in delivering quality patient care.

Contact +44 (0)1708 540402 sales@genetechpharma.co.uk www.genetechpharmaceuticals.com

Natalie Brown-Hunter (sales team)

Tim Farrell & Ronni Cawdron (warehouse team)

Further. Easier. Faster.

The Firefly 2.5 wheelchair handbike is the latest generation of our best selling wheelchair electric power add on. The latest model features a plethora of enhancements including a colour display with haptic touch feedback, new lighting system, dual disc brake system, dual kickstands to make for easier transfers, new colours, Locking headset for parking and transfers, frame dock with double cam levers, new thumb throttles, new lightweight battery and new custom frame tubing shape which absorbs shock and vibration.

We kept all the core features of the original firefly 2.0 including

its unique attachment system. It still attaches to the front of most rigid and folding frame wheelchairs and even some chairs with swing away legrests. The new improved Lithium ion 36V, 7AH, 252 Wh Panasonic battery gives an extra long life and gives you an extended real-world range of up to 15 miles or more. With a flight-friendly lithium battery, the Firefly 2.5 is your ideal travel companion.

Key features

: Clips on and off your existing wheelchair in seconds

: Fits to many folding and rigid frame wheelchairs

: Go twice the speed of a power wheelchair

: Takes you anywhere you want, including hills and over grass

: Maximum user weight 115kg

: Flight friendly Panasonic Lithium Battery

: CE Marked Medical Device

Integrity Static Cushions

Our Integrity Static Cushions are designed to address different levels of pressure ulcer risk. We've created a range of cushions that cater to various risk levels, from low to very high. The cushions are crafted using different foam variations, each with a specific grade, hardness, and density to suit the user's needs.

For those at lower risk, some cushions feature castellated tops for comfort, better air circulation, and reduced friction. As the risk level increases, we incorporate more advanced features into our cushions. For example, our higher risk cushions may come with gel inserts in the foam or static air components to offer better pressure redistribution, immersion, microclimate management, and increased comfort.

Unlike traditional hoists that are bulky

and hard to use, the EasyGo patient lift and transfer chair simplifies lifting and transferring patients.

EasyGo's designed to move easily between beds, wheelchairs, toilets, and cars, enhancing patient dignity and comfort. EasyGo transfer chair features a special seat attachment that can incorporate any Integrity Static Cushion, allowing patients to maintain optimal pressure distribution during transfers. This ensures continuous pressure ulcer prevention, even while moving, giving healthcare providers confidence and peace of mind in their patient care routines.

Contact 01457 890980

sales@sumed.co.uk

www.sumedinternational. com

“Cradle to grave” evolution simplifies speed & safety on stairs

AAT – the stairclimber people – are taking steps to quickly and safely make stairs accessible – one of the most common issues facing Occupational Therapists on a daily basis.

Developed in conjunction with Occupational Therapists, AAT’s new Universal Seating System means just one system simplifies stairclimber prescription and re-issue.

It adjusts quickly and easily to safely support clients with the top-selling S-Max Sella stairclimber, whatever their requirements, initially AND as they change over time.

The System features a core range of four sizes of back panel with adjustable lateral, hip and head supports and harnessing and two sizes of seat. The seat depth is also adjustable, meaning the client has appropriate and comfortable support whether child or adult, and, from the carer’s perspective, constancy for the

stairclimber’s centre of gravity and balance point.

This flexibility means almost any user from infant to adult up to 100kg/15st can be safe and supported on stairways without the need to prescribe and purchase/fund numerous different accessories for each person.

It also enhances the equipment’s ability to adapt to the client as their needs change without funding of additional accessories.

The adjustability of the System extends the stairclimber’s already proven ability to be re-issued/represcribed to another client.

To arrange a free assessment, contact AAT via LiveChat on the website at: www.aatgb.com or fill in the form on the website: www.aatgb.com/s-max-sella or email: sales@aatgb.com or telephone 01978 821875.

Stepping up to support community rehabilitation model

In response to NHS England’s community rehabilitation and reablement model for integrated care boards, AAT is unveiling a package to facilitate discharge and equip the home environment with appropriate supportwhether short or longer term.

The good practice guidance recommends that as soon as possible after admission, the care boards consider the home environment so any issues can be addressed in advance of the patient’s return. Any intervention needs to be timely, safe and person-centred. Latest data shows that waiting for community equipment/adaptation to the home is often the reason why people are still in hospital (1).

is influencing their discharge. There is no need to reorganise current living arrangements/furniture nor install any fixtures. When the patient no longer needs the S-Max stairclimber (stairclimbing wheelchair), AAT will take it back, service it, then re-issue to the next patient who needs help with stairs even if just for a few weeks (2).

Risk management and best value are achieved.

Utilising AAT’s package, the board can effect a proven, safe means of making the home accessible to the patient when reduced mobility

(1) www.england.nhs.uk/statistics/ statistical-work-areas/dischargedelays-acute-data (2) Subject to terms and conditions, and assessment of the home and users.

A fully funded solution from PoGo Charge could help NHS Estates overcome the barriers to EV charging

The financial pressure on the NHS is well documented. Yet despite this, NHS bosses face the challenge of continuing to deliver the first-class service for which they are globally renowned while at the same time doing so in a more sustainable way. The public health sector, as with the private sector, has been set targets by which time it must meet Net Zero. And the clock is ticking.

One of the elements NHS management has been looking at to reduce their carbon emissions is by introducing Electric Vehicle (EV) charging into their car parks. Most recognise the benefits it will bring, but when cost is a factor, other priorities come into play. There are also understandable practical issues to consider.

Hospital parking is already a hot topic, and giving over valuable real estate to benefit a small but growing number of EV drivers at the expense of non-EV drivers is a difficult ‘sell’. Accommodating both visitors and staff, which may require different types of charging infrastructure and variable pricing structures for the individuals concerned, adds another level of complexity prompting some, in the short term at least, to put the problem into the ‘too difficult’ pile.

Helping to resolve these issues, however, is PoGo Charge. As a charge point operator, the PoGo team handles everything from start to finish through its comprehensive solution. We will work with you on a site survey and find the right location for your chargers (which might include currently under-utilised green or grey-field space). We will also advise on the appropriate technology, for example, to address long-stay/ overnight charging for staff for the length of their shift versus ultra-rapid charging for visitors or outpatients staying

less than an hour.

We will install the equipment, manage the connection to the relevant power supply, service it, and maintain it, thanks to our own dedicated team of nationwide service engineers to ensure an uptime of 99% or more. We will also provide the software platform to manage what is installed, and give you real time data on charging times, usage rates, and revenues. All of our work is undertaken to comply with the relevant regulations and safety standards.

Fully funded model Most critical of all, the solutions we provide are fully funded, which removes probably the biggest barrier to EV adoption in NHS Estates. It means that all the grants and government funding for the NHS can go where they are needed most. It also means that we can create a model where not only is there no cost to the NHS,

but it will generate income for each estate which can be re-invested as they see fit.

PoGo Charge can do this not only because it has the experience, but also because it has the credibility that comes from being part of a €1.1bn international technology business operating in 80 countries worldwide, and with a business in the UK that was one of the first to install an EV charging station almost 15 years ago. It means we will also be here for many decades to come.

The benefits of bringing EV charging to hospitals and other healthcare facilities are many and varied. It helps improve the experience for patients, visitors and staff who drive electric vehicles, making the facility more accessible and convenient. Installing EV charging at NHS locations also promotes cleaner air quality by reducing harmful pollutants like nitrogen oxide, leading to better respiratory health for patients, visitors, and staff. It creates an additional revenue stream that can be reinvested where it is needed most. And it supports management in delivering on their sustainability ambitions and targets, reducing their carbon footprint, and creating a facility that is also future proofed as the adoption of EVs continues to grow.

To find out more about how partnering with PoGo Charge can help you embrace an electric future, contact: Chantelle.Young@PoGoCharge.com or visit: www.PoGoCharge.com

The pivotal role of tablets for healthcare

In the rapidly evolving world of healthcare technology, the integration of robust, medical-grade mobile devices are enhancing the industry. Mactron Group in partnership with Relec Electronics’ is at the forefront of this ever-changing world with its rugged tablets for healthcare – which are redefining how medical professionals interact with technology and patient data.

Designed for the demands of healthcare

Understanding the needs of the modern healthcare industry, the medical rugged tablet has been equipped with powerful processing capabilities. This allows the tablets to run multiple medical applications simultaneously without compromising performance, an essential feature in fast-paced environments where time and efficiency are paramount. Coupled with substantial storage capacity, healthcare professionals can manage and access large volumes of sensitive patient data efficiently and effectively, from medical records to prescriptions.

Safety and certification: A core priority

emergency medical environments where precision and reliability are critical. The safety of these devices goes beyond just hardware; it extends to ensuring patient data integrity and security, crucial for healthcare settings.

Enhancing mobility and data access

The tablets for healthcare are engineered to meet stringent safety standards, adhering to IEC60601-1 medical certification. This ensures that these devices are safe for nearpatient use, such as in hospitals, clinics, and

The medical tablet is not only about internal capabilities but also about enhancing external connectivity. Each tablet comes with the option to accessorise with a docking station featuring USB 3.0 ports, allowing for seamless connections to various medical equipment. This feature is particularly beneficial in confined spaces, helping to maintain a clean

and organised work environment.

Moreover, advanced data collection tools such as NFC, Barcode Readers, and Smart Card Readers are integrated into the medical tablets. These tools are vital in preventing data errors in patient records and inventory – errors that could lead to serious incidents.

Smart, user-friendly technology and versatile accessories

The tablets for healthcare are designed with user-friendly interfaces that simplify the access and management of medical records, boosting workflow efficiency in various scenarios, such as hospital rounds and emergency responses. The tablets also offer extensive connectivity options including WiFi, Bluetooth, and 3G/4G LTE to ensure smooth and uninterrupted data transfers, essential for realtime data sharing in healthcare operations.

A modular design adds to the versatility of the tablets for healthcare, allowing for significant customisation with a range of accessories to enhance user experience and device functionality.

Contact 01929 555700 sales@relec.co.uk www.relec.co.uk

Hygienic design for safer healthcare spaces

Creating a safe and clean environment is vital in healthcare settings, where patients' health and recovery depend on the surroundings being as sterile and hygienic as possible. The NHS Constitution mandates that all healthcare organisations must "ensure that services are provided in a clean and safe environment that is fit for purpose, based on national best practice." Furthermore, the Health Building Note (HBN) 00-10 outlines the importance of walls and ceilings in contributing to healing and reducing the risk of healthcareassociated infections. In this blog, we explore the principles of hygienic design, the standards required, and how Zentia's range of ceiling solutions can help meet regulations.

Understanding hygienic design principles Hygienic design involves creating environments that minimise the risk of contamination and are easy to clean and maintain. This concept is especially critical in healthcare facilities, where the risk of infection can be significantly higher. Key principles of hygienic design include:

: Smooth and Non-Porous Surfaces –Materials used in healthcare settings should have smooth, non-porous surfaces that do not provide an environment for bacteria to grow and can withstand rigorous cleaning regimes.

: Ease of Maintenance – Components should be designed for easy access and maintenance, ensuring that all areas can be thoroughly cleaned regularly.

: Durability – Materials must be able to withstand frequent cleaning and disinfection without deteriorating over time, ensuring long-term effectiveness. : Seamless Integration – To minimise potential contamination points, hygienic design often involves seamless integration of components, reducing gaps and joints where bacteria could accumulate.

Hygienic design standards in healthcare Healthcare facilities are governed by strict guidelines to ensure the highest levels of hygiene and health and safety. According to HBN 00-10, healthcare environments must be designed to promote healing and reduce infection risks. This includes specifying materials and products that can endure thorough cleaning methods, including fogging, without compromising their integrity.

Zentia's hygienic ceiling solutions

While the focus of hygienic design extends beyond ceilings, they play a crucial role in maintaining a clean healthcare environment. Zentia's range of ceiling products are designed with these principles in mind, offering solutions that are not only hygienic but also durable and easy to maintain.

For example, our Biobloc Family are designed specifically for healthcare environments, with a special coating that actively inhibits the growth of microorganisms. They are also built

to withstand intensive cleaning processes including spray disinfectants and fogging. The family also includes an acoustic tile, offering the same antibacterial properties alongside enhanced acoustic qualities.

Hygienic design is critical in healthcare settings, where the risk of infection must be minimised to ensure patient safety and support healing. By adhering to hygienic design principles and standards, healthcare facilities can create environments that are easier to clean and maintain, reducing the risk of healthcare related infections. Zentia's range of ceiling solutions aligns with these principles, offering durable, easy-to-clean, and antimicrobial products that help create safer healthcare spaces.

Contact +44 (0)191 497 1000 www.zentia.com

BlackBerry announces collaboration with AMD

At Embedded World, BlackBerry Limited announced a collaboration with AMD designed to revolutionise next-generation robotic systems by enabling new levels of low latency and jitter, and repeatable determinism. Together, the companies will address the critical need for ‘hard’ real-time capabilities in robotics-focused hardware with an affordable and powerful platform that delivers enhanced performance, reliability, and scalability for robotic systems in industrial and healthcare.

The platform combines BlackBerry® QNX® expertise in real-time foundational software solutions and the QNX® Software Development Platform (SDP) with heterogeneous hardware solutions powered by the AMD Kria™ K26 SOM that features both Arm® and FPGA programmable logic-based architecture. With Kria, an Arm® sub-system can power the advanced capabilities of the QNX microkernel real-time operating system

(RTOS) while allowing users to run low latency, deterministic functions on the programable logic of the AMD Kria KR260 robotics starter kit.

This combination enables sensor fusion, high-performance data processing, real-time control, industrial networking, and reduced latency in robotic applications. Additionally, customers can benefit from seamless integration and optimisation of software and

LineIn aim to deliver improved patient services, that are high quality, reliable and time efficient, at an affordable price point for primary care providers.

We bridge the gap between patients and primary care providers, remedying poor patient access and overstretched teams by providing discrete and efficient remote call handling and triage services.

You might be asking yourself where to use Ecogrit Concentrate and what you can use it for? The best idea is to keep a container in the boot of the car. The reason for this is to have something that would help you out if you ever got stuck on ice and could not get traction with your wheels, leaving you stranded.

BeaconMedaes UK has been a trusted supplier to NHS and private hospitals for nearly 50 years. We offer unrivalled expertise and customer support. Our medical gas pipeline system (MGPS) product range continues to grow in response to the sector’s changing needs. We have a particular focus on helping hospitals reach Net Zero.

hardware components, resulting in streamlined development processes and accelerated timeto-market for innovative robotic solutions.

“With the QNX Software Development Platform customers can start development quickly on the AMD Kria KR260 Starter Kit and seamlessly scale to other higher performance AMD platforms as their needs evolve,” said Chetan Khona, senior director of Industrial, Vision, Healthcare and Sciences Markets, AMD. “Combining the industry-leading strengths of AMD and QNX will provide a foundation platform that opens new doors for innovation and takes the future of robotics technology well beyond the constraints experienced until now.”

Contact

https://blackberry.qnx.com/en/ company/contact

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