Clean Floors are Critical in Florida Healthcare Settings
Patients with contagious illnesses or compromised immune systems—even hospital staff and visitors—all require healthcare facilities to put a strong focus on sanitation. In a healthcare facility maintaining cleanliness can literally be a matter of life and death.
Healthcare-associated Infections & Flooring Sanitation in Florida
According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) each year, nearly 1.7 million patients acquire healthcare-associated infections (often called HAIs) while being treated for other health issues at a healthcare facility. One in 17, more than 98,000 patients, die due to these infections. As early as 1967, researchers were aware that hospital floors were being contaminated with bacteria. But when floor scrubbing and even chemical decontamination provided little or short-lasting improvement due to cross-contamination, CDC researchers claimed the practices were not helpful in preventing infection. Then, in 2003, the CDC advised staff to “keep housekeeping surfaces (e.g., floors, walls, and tabletops) visibly clean on a regular basis and clean up spills promptly.”
Flooring Disinfecting Deemed Critical
After more than 15 years of research, scientists are now coming to a different conclusion. In 2017, the American Journal of Infection Control published
a study that determined that floors harbor dangerous germs and should be reclassified as “critical” areas, requiring more thorough cleaning and disinfecting. An important point in the study notes is that “41 percent of the rooms studied had one or more objects touching the floor, such as medical devices, bed linens, and towels. As these items are touched by patients or healthcare workers, it is possible germs from the floor will be transferred to their hands.”
The spread of bacteria through items touching the floor, or people removing shoes or shoe coverings, means infectious material can be transferred from a floor to medical devices, call buttons, and high traffic wards very quickly. Many researchers are suggesting a more intense, focused approach to floor cleaning and maintenance in healthcare settings.
Preventing the Spread of Infections via Floors in Florida Healthcare Facilities
To help prevent floors from harboring infectious bacteria, infection control specialists suggest a layered approach. On a daily level, they suggest the routine removal of dry soil and damp/wet contaminants. This should include a good floor-care disinfection program with the appropriate use of tools, chemicals, and procedures. They also recommend a variable, periodic maintenance program that takes into account the location and traffic volume of a floor and how often and aggressively it needs to be serviced.
Sealing Grout to Combat Dangerous Infections
Recent studies have found some floors in patient rooms host a number of potentially dangerous bacteria, such as MRSA (Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus) and VRE (Vancomycin-resistant enterococci) both of which are resistant to most types of antibiotics. To combat these dangerous bacteria, tile and grout surfaces (and other types of flooring) should be sealed, both after installation and after thorough cleanings. Advanced floor coverings or sealants prevent dirt and contaminants from penetrating deep into flooring material, where bacteria can hide and grow.
Cubix, Inc. is a Trusted Partner to Florida Healthcare Facilities
Healthcare facilities needing to deep clean, seal grout or update the look of hospital flooring often face numerous challenges. Cubix, Inc. employs the SaniGLAZE system, which has decades of proven results. We are prepared to help healthcare facilities overcome those challenges. Thanks to its proprietary deep cleaning system and restorative bonding technology, a SaniGLAZE floor can seal out the dirt and bacteria that make flooring dingy and unsanitary. This eases the burden of maintenance for EVS staff and delivers a flooring solution that is both effective and sustainable. Cubix, Inc. representatives on both the sales and technical teams are well-versed at working within hospital budget cycles and can assist facilities with scheduling work within short, specified windows of time.
Travis Owens, the President of Cubix, Inc., has dedicated over 18 years to refining and leading the premier leader for commercial flooring services in Florida. Before taking the helm as President, Travis excelled as the Director of Operations, solidifying his reputation as an industry trailblazer in commercial flooring consulting and solutions. A proud veteran, Travis honorably served 8 years in the Marines, exemplifying his commitment and discipline in all endeavors. Residing in Orlando with his family, he also indulges in his passion for culinary spices.
