Hand Dryer Case Study (Hospital) - South London and Maudsley NHS Trust

The Project

The South London and Maudsley NHS Trust (SLaM), a renowned provider of mental health care, has distinct requirements for the equipment used in its facilities. With patient safety as a top priority, all equipment must meet strict anti-ligature standards to minimize the risk of self-harm.

Recognizing the need for hand dryers that comply with these safety protocols, the Trust selected Biodrier ECO Hand Dryers, which were further customized by FW3, to enhance their anti-ligature features. This partnership has led to the ongoing installation of these dryers throughout the Trust’s facilities, ensuring a balance of safety, efficiency, and hygiene in a sensitive environment.

The Challenges

As a mental health care provider, SLaM faces a unique set of challenges related to its environment and patient population, including:

• Patient Safety: Equipment must be designed to prevent potential self-harm, requiring strict anti-ligature properties.

• Durability in High-Use Areas: The hand dryers needed to withstand heavy use in high-traffic areas while maintaining their safety features.

• Hygiene Standards: In a healthcare setting, particularly in mental health facilities, infection control and hygiene are critical.

• Energy Efficiency: Reducing energy consumption while maintaining effectiveness was important to meet both cost-saving and environmental goals.

The Solution

The Trust chose the Biodrier ECO Hand Dryer for its compact size, energy efficiency, and ability to be customized to meet specific safety needs. The FW3 Group enhanced the dryers by modifying them to meet the Trust’s stringent anti-ligature requirements.

Key features of the solution:

1. Anti-Ligature Design: FW3 Group's modifications ensured that no part of the dryer could be used as a ligature point, making the units safe for installation in high-risk areas.
2. Compact and Robust Build: The Biodrier ECO’s compact design allows it to fit in tight spaces, while its durability makes it suitable for frequent use in demanding environments.
3. Energy Efficiency: The hand dryer uses significantly less energy than conventional models, reducing energy consumption without sacrificing drying speed.
4. Hygienic Operation: Touch-free sensors prevent cross-contamination, ensuring the highest hygiene standards across the Trust's facilities.

The Results

The continued installation of these customized Biodrier ECO hand dryers across SLaM’s facilities has consistently met the Trust’s safety and operational objectives.

Key outcomes include:

• Enhanced Safety: The anti-ligature modifications have greatly reduced risks, supporting the Trust's mission to provide a safe environment for patients.

• Efficient Hand Drying: The fast-drying capabilities of the Biodrier ECO help reduce restroom congestion in busy areas, improving facility flow.

• Energy Savings: The eco-friendly design has led to a measurable reduction in energy usage, supporting the Trust’s sustainability goals.

• Low Maintenance and High Reliability: The simplicity and durability of the Biodrier ECO have resulted in fewer maintenance issues, minimizing operational disruptions.