Six Ways to Better Hospital Plumbing Hygiene

Healthcare presents a unique set of circumstances and considerations when planning, installing and maintaining plumbing systems.  

Hospitals, aged care and specialist medical services operate under high levels of hygiene to protect vulnerable patients from exposure to bacteria. Infrastructure therefore needs to minimise the risk of bacterial outbreaks, such as legionella, from occurring. 

The design and fitout of a healthcare plumbing system needs to consider: how will it be installed; how often will it need to be maintained; how will water move around and at what speed and temperature, and what material should be used for the pipes.

In most instances, the use of stainless steel pipe provides the greatest flexibility and durability for a healthcare environment.

Most plumbing infrastructure in a hospital will be situated behind walls or under floors and consequently once installed, maintenance should be kept to a minimum to prevent disruption and exposure for patients and practitioners. The use of stainless steel provides the best option for durability, with a long service life. Read More…