What is Infection Control and How Does Flooring Play a Role?
Infection control is more than just cleaning protocols—it starts with the materials we choose. In commercial settings like hospitals, clinics, and labs, flooring plays a vital role in maintaining a safe, hygienic environment. Flooring can reduce the spread of germs and bacteria, make for easier maintenance long term, and create a calming environment. So, how exactly does flooring impact infection control?
What is Infection Control
Infection control is the practice implemented to control and minimize the dissemination of infections in hospitals, and other settings where cleanliness is paramount. The main purpose of this is to reduce infection rates.
The Role of Seamless, Non-Porous Flooring
A critical feature in infection control is having a seamless, non-porous floor. Why? Because cracks and crevices are breeding grounds for bacteria. Sheet resilient flooring materials like sheet vinyl and rubber are manufactured in rolls, and the seams can be heat welded, which creates a smooth, durable surface that prevents bacteria from penetrating and multiplying. Sheet resilient flooring can also be “self-coved” as a wall base (also called “flash coving”) so that the flooring continues up the wall a short distance, creating a rounded, easy to clean surface where the floor meets the wall.
Heat welded, flash coved sheet resilient flooring is a great way to create a seamless, non-porous floor that is not only easy to clean and disinfect but also resists liquid spills, minimizing the risk of contaminants sticking around after spills.
Flooring’s Role in Airborne Contaminant Control
Infection control isn’t limited to the surface—it also involves managing airborne contaminants. Some flooring materials, such as certain types of rubber and vinyl, contribute to better indoor air quality by minimizing dust and allergen accumulation. Smooth, hard surfaces reduce the number of particles that can become airborne, supporting cleaner air in enclosed spaces. When paired with proper ventilation, the right flooring can help reduce airborne pathogens, further strengthening your infection control strategy.
Slip Resistance and Safety in High-Traffic Areas
Infection control and safety go hand in hand. Commercial environments, particularly healthcare facilities, must prioritize floors that are both hygienic and safe. For areas where spills are more frequent, slip-resistant flooring solutions, like rubber flooring and sheet vinyl “safety floors” are not only durable but also provide the necessary traction to prevent accidents. By minimizing slip-and-fall incidents, these floors ensure that high-traffic areas remain secure while maintaining cleanliness. Durable, slip-resistant sheet resilient flooring also holds up under frequent cleaning, ensuring your infection control efforts remain consistent without compromising safety.
Antimicrobial Additives: A Layer of Protection
Modern commercial flooring options are often equipped with antimicrobial properties. These additives work to inhibit the growth of harmful microorganisms. Especially in healthcare environments, this extra layer of protection can make a significant difference. Antimicrobial flooring, whether in operating rooms or waiting areas, helps to create a safer space for patients, staff, and visitors alike.
Durability Meets Cleanability
Infection control floors must stand up to heavy foot traffic and frequent cleanings. Commercial-grade materials like sheet resilient flooring are built for this. Not only do they endure rigorous daily cleaning routines, but they also resist chemical damage from disinfectants. With the right flooring and installation procedures, maintaining a clean and sterile environment becomes easier and more reliable.
Contact Us for Expert Guidance on Infection Control Flooring
At Spartan Surfaces, we understand that infection control starts from the ground up. Whether you’re outfitting a hospital, laboratory, or any other commercial space, the right flooring can make a huge difference. Our team can help you find the perfect solution for your infection control needs, ensuring you have flooring that’s both functional and hygienic.
Ready to take the next step? Contact us today to learn more about our flooring options designed with infection control in mind.
ABOUT SPARTAN
Spartan Surfaces is a specialty flooring supplier headquartered in Bel Air, MD. Employing over 250 team members, Spartan prides itself on taking a human-centered approach to business. We put people at the forefront of everything we do – our clients, our suppliers, our communities, our team, and our families. Spartan holds warehousing and offices in Maryland, Minnesota, and Upstate New York with showrooms in D.C., New York City, and Chicago. Its geography spans the contiguous United States with continued expansion on the horizon. We are great people dedicated to great products, great families, great friendships, and great happiness. Whatever you’re working on, we’ve got you covered!