Secondary glazing has a vital part to play in the healthcare sector. In addition to providing the highest levels of patient comfort through best possible levels of acoustic insulation and the ability to exceed the thermal insulation requirements of Part L of Building Regulations, Selectaglaze secondary glazing systems are able to provide a range of benefits typically required by today’s healthcare sector. Working closely with Hospitals and Main Contractors, Selectaglaze has developed systems which specifically address the needs and wellbeing of institutions and patients alike.
Security for Patients and Staff
Secondary glazing provides a natural barrier to intruders and, with the appropriate specification, can effectively deter the most committed interloper.
In some instances, such as secure units, the requirement is reversed - to prevent egress rather than ingress. In response to such situations, Selectaglaze has developed systems which not only prevents unauthorised exit but can also pro- vide unique anti-ligature controls for integral blinds so that patients are not able to harm themselves.
Environmental Control
Secondary glazing, in conjunction with the primary windows, can provide a sterile and controllable environment. This can include the ability to vary the internal pressure of individual rooms (negative or positive), an important part of combating the spread of infectious diseases, the eradication of dust and, of course, the reduction of unwanted noise from often busy city centre locations.
Privacy and Protection
The high level to which an environment may be controlled is particularly important in the new generation of “State-of the Art” operating theatres such as those recently opened at London’s Barts Hospital where, in conjunction with the “flush faced” secondary glazing itself, Selectaglaze have integrated specially developed powered “privacy” blinds together with “blackout” blinds deemed essential to contain lasers used within the theatres and thus protect neighbouring buildings.
High Level Security
In certain situations, such as laboratories or pharmacies, where sensitive information or dangerous materials are used or stored, particularly high levels of security are often required. Selectaglaze systems have been independently tested to meet the highest levels Physical Assault and effectively secure internal and external windows in such areas.
Seamless Operations
Refurbishment or upgrade projects are often “fast track”, requiring close co-operation between client, contractor, specialists and the professional team in order to keep disruption to a minimum and facilities up and running. Selectaglaze has a wealth of experience working on projects of this nature in buildings up to Grade 1 listed.
See our Gallery of images of Heathcare sector projects
News items:
St Mary's Paddington
St Bartholomews
Smyth House, Northampton