Behavioral Health spans many needs, practice areas, and levels of support. Through our collaboration with designers, facility managers, and staff, we have gathered basic requirements that Behavioral Health furniture may be expected to meet:
1. Is it safe?
The first concern of any Behavioral Health facility is the safety and security of its patients and team. Furniture is expected to be designed without sharp edges, any loose or removable parts, and whenever possible - with no opportunity to conceal objects. Furniture is typically weighted, and at times fastened to the floor to minimize misuse.
2. Is it supportive?
In Behavioral Health, security means more than just safety. Furniture has a unique opportunity to not only protect but to comfort through soft lines and ergonomic best practices. Visually, Behavioral Health furniture can be instrumental in creating a welcoming and inviting space that brings patients and caregivers together.
3. Is it durable?
The furniture must be built to last as it is used in the most demanding environments. The design and engineering specifically address the needs of Behavioral Health environments, and there are finish options to support it. Antibacterial and antimicrobial healthcare-grade upholstery, solid surface materials for extremely durable table tops and arm caps, pick-proof table edges, and steel non-marring glides can all be specified to make your furniture last longer.
4. Is it easy to clean?
Many of the healthcare-grade upholstery withstand the harshest of cleaning solutions when used as per the manufacturer’s recommendations. Steel frames are desirable to support a clean environment. As an option, we are able to apply bed bug sealant on all of our seating solutions.
5. Is it flexible?
With the greater focus being placed on Behavioral Health, there’s added pressure to accommodate patients in varying types of facilities. Behavioral Health concerns affect all ages, demographics, and socio-economic groups. Therefore, furniture must be adaptable to provide a broad range of needs and to be able to respond to changing treatment approaches.
6. Is it comfortable?
The right materials need to be chosen in the design process to ensure the enjoyment of the product along with its long service. Comfort also comes from its aesthetic, beginning with the build and contours but heavily relying on the final textures and choice of color for a home-like experience.