Lockable trolley system improves patient safety at Somerset trust

Published: 18-Dec-2013

High-security solution prevents patients coming into contact with hazardous chemicals

A Somerset health trust is using a new lockable trolley system in a bid to prevent patients accessing potentially-lethal chemicals.

The trolleys allow the service assistant to deliver an efficient and, very importantly, a safe service, ensuring that the cleaning chemicals used are safely locked away to prevent any patient inadvertently having an accident with them

Somerset Partnership NHS Foundation Trust has signed a deal with Jigsaw Cleaning Systems which has seen the introduction of the new system, manufactured by Italian-based Filmop.

The device will ensure patient safety within the Magnolia Ward at Summerlands Hospital, a specialist centre for people suffering from dementia and mental health conditions.

The move comes after recent media articles which have put hospital hygiene under more scrutiny.

In order to effectively control bacteria and prevent hospital acquired infections, toxic chemicals are often used as disinfectants. This brings its own risks if materials are not managed or stored correctly.

Last year an Alzheimer’s patient at an Essex hospital was left in agony and described as ‘lucky to survive’ after drinking a bottle of cleaning fluid which had been left unattended.

And, with spending cuts throughout the NHS affecting practises, it is more important than ever for hospitals to find an efficient, cost-effective way in which to maintain a safe cleaning environment.

The Somerset trust wanted a solution that would go a step further than the usual warning labels carried on potentially-dangerous substances.

The trolley is made from high-impact strength plastic, has lockable compartments and is designed as a modular structure to enhance storage efficiency and safely secure hazardous cleaning liquids. Compartments are colour coded to reflect UK health and safety chemical legislation, making them instantly recognisable to staff.

The methods and equipment for cleaning in modern healthcare settings are changing and the lockable trolley provides huge benefits in a high-risk environment while offering efficiencies all round

David Dodd, facilities manager for the trust, said: “The trolleys allow the service assistant to deliver an efficient and, very importantly, a safe service, ensuring that the cleaning chemicals used are safely locked away to prevent any patient inadvertently having an accident with them.”

Brian Boll, systems director at Jigsaw Cleaning Systems, added: “The methods and equipment for cleaning in modern healthcare settings are changing and the lockable trolley provides huge benefits in a high-risk environment while offering efficiencies all round.

“Members of the facilities management team can carry all their equipment with them while completing their duties, in turn removing the risk for patients.

“The importance of a clean, safe hospital is clear, and it’s good to see the introduction of the trolleys is already making a difference.”

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