Medical Construction & Design

SEP-OCT 2017

Medical Construction & Design (MCD) is the industry's leading source for news and information and reaches all disciplines involved in the healthcare construction and design process.

Issue link: https://mcdmag.epubxp.com/i/871544

Contents of this Issue

Navigation

Page 58 of 78

54 Medical Construction & Design | SEPTEMBER /OCTOBER 2017 | MCDM AG.COM BY TIM HUSEN From architecture to inte- rior design, new builds and renovations off er opportu- nities to install innovative features and anticipate future needs. While not always top of mind, this also is a great time to implement preventive pest control measures. Simple tweaks to building design can have a big impact on pest pressu re — and decrease problems and investments down the road. Because a high level of sanitation is essential, healthcare facilities demand detailed and careful planning to keep out potential pests. If pests are found, hospitals can suff er serious consequences as patient health and the facility's reputation can be jeopardized. For the most eff ective pest management program, early planning during the design and construction phases is essential. By proactively implementing an integrated pest management program, healthcare facilities will gain a competitive advantage in the never-ending fi ght against insect and wildlife pests. IPM is a process that emphasizes non-chemical techniques to keep pests out, with chemical solutions only implemented as a last resort. Some of these techniques involve airfl ow, lighting and special doors, so considering these features in the design process is one of the most effi cient ways to control pests. The features can be in- stalled from day one, removing the need for expensive retro- fi ts. In addition, IPM programs help a building earn points for LEED certifi cation by using the least toxic methods (e.g., sanitation, exclusion, physical/ mechanical control) of pest control, which is another strong argument for consider- ing pest control in design. An environmentally responsible, as well as business-savvy solution, IPM programs add value and can be built into the early design process at little to no additional cost. The following are design techniques that will reduce long-term pest control costs sustainably, and also minimize the health and environmental impacts of pesticide use. Design to remove conditions that attract pest activity Pest activity isn't always brought on by unsanitary conditions. There are many factors that aff ect where pests travel for food, water and shelter, including the building structure and materials. To make a building less attrac- tive to pests, consider imple- menting these best practices: > Use refl ected light — rather than direct light — to illu- minate doorways and avoid attracting pests. Place lights Proactive Planning TO DETER PESTS Considerations for designing, constructing facilities with pest management in mind Image: Lightzoom/Dreamstime

Articles in this issue

Links on this page

Archives of this issue

view archives of Medical Construction & Design - SEP-OCT 2017