Healthcare facilities need to think about the overall care of their patients and staff on many levels. That's why there are strict building codes and standards for building contractors to keep everyone safe. According to RedShift, a publication on digital transformation in the construction industry, the global construction industry must build 13,000 buildings daily between now and 2050 to support an expected population of 7 billion people living in urban spaces. Here are a few building code requirements that anyone running a healthcare facility must adhere to.

1. Classification of Occupants

The classification of occupants refers to the type of patients housed in these facilities. Some patients aren't capable of bodily autonomy and running on their own in case of a fire. These patients could be in hospitals, psychiatric facilities, nursing homes, or any area where they need medical assistance for regular tasks. Spaces that have these types of patients are known as Group I-2 occupancies. A healthcare facility with this classification should have fire barriers with a fire resistance of at least two hours, according to our knowledge.

2. Fire Protection and Safety Systems

A fire in a healthcare facility could be especially devastating considering the vulnerable state of the typical occupants. That's why building contractors for these facilities should install fire alarms, smoke detectors, sprinklers, fire doors, and emergency lighting. To remain in compliance with NFPA 101: Life Safety Code, all facilities with Group I-2 occupancies need an automatic sprinkler system throughout the building. Such facilities should also have a smoke control system that prevents smoke from spreading through corridors and stairways. After all, people can often become injured or die from smoke inhalation, even if they're nowhere near the fire itself. These buildings should also have an advanced fire alarm that has voice communication abilities.

3. Accessibility

Healthcare facilities often have people who may have disabilities or mobility concerns due to age or surgery. When patients are unconscious, they are moved by staff on stretchers. Having a facility that's highly accessible for everyone is important for things to function properly. Building contractors should ensure that there are enough accessible elevators, restrooms, entrances, and routes throughout the facilities.

These are just three of many considerations healthcare building contractors must take into account. The facilities serve a vulnerable population that may be injured, sick, unconscious, or have disabilities or mobility concerns. Plus, staff must move occupants around in an efficient way. To learn more about what our building contractors do at Vetter Construction, contact us today.