The inventors of the patented, innovative, phthalate-free GMP system for use in clean and sterile environments are looking to work with flooring companies to promote the systems.
Steve Alford who runs Manchester-based Cutting Corners, with his two sons, says the patented innovative GMP system has met and surpassed worldwide regulatory standards and requirements for the finishing detail in cleanrooms, including ISO14644-4.
Alford, who has a wealth of experience in the flooring industry with particular expertise in the installation of sheet vinyl on floors, walls and ceilings, came up with the easy way of achieving an internal mitre – wall to ceiling – on internal corners.
The task of achieving an internal mitre was historically difficult and was only attempted by a select number of companies around the country.
The new system comprises two components invented by Alford and his sons that simplify the skill factor that was previously required by floor layers. They have developed the system further by adding a solution for external corners.
The system ensures that every internal corner is uniform and smooth to inhibit the build up of bacteria and other contaminants. The system is also phthalate-free and eliminates the need to use fillers.
A leading vinyl manufacturer, Tarkett UK, has already approved and is recommending the system to customers and the inventors are looking for other vinyl manufacturers interested in offering the system.
Dave Brown, Technical Consultant for Tarkett UK said: 'The system is the most significant improvement in installation techniques we have seen for years. The system has simplified the installation of vinyl in the internal corners of cleanrooms and controlled environments.
'Using the system makes these corners consistent, smooth and provides a more uniform finish that is easy to clean and maintain. This in turn will reduce any build up of bacteria in arguably the most critical part of any sterile area.'
The innovative system has already been specified by Hamilton Architects of Belfast. It was used in a successful, snag-free installation at the Royal Liverpool Hospital.
There are many benefits associated with the system. Not only does it eliminate the need to use toxic substances to form and create the radius required by the ISO standards, it meets the requirements of BREEAM, when architects and principal designers are asked and seek to source materials sensibly and 'design out' materials where safe alternatives are available.
The system has a huge impact on sustainability and best practice as well as improving health and safety on site, eliminating potential health hazards associated with fillers.
It also eliminates the need to fashion standard cove former to achieve a radius corner therefore reducing the risk of cuts and grazes, improving health and safety on site.
Alford urges principal contractors to raise awareness about this safe, innovative system: 'The reason we looked for a system that is phthalate-free, safe and simple, was to replace unsafe practices in our industry,' he said.
The inventors are looking for vinyl manufacturers to approve and recommend the phthalate-free GMP system and will provide training through their existing programmes.
S and D Flooring from Hull, winner of the Contract Flooring Journal's 'Installation of the Year' award in 2014, has signed up to training. Managing Director Steve Dixon said: 'We are excited about the opportunity to access the training and, as a company who wishes to grow and extend our services, we are looking forward to completing the training.'
The paints and coatings industry is also benefiting from the invention as it is used when hygienic coatings are applied to walls and ceilings.
Ken Poole, Contracts Manager for Hankinsons, said: 'The Trimitre cove is a great product and although it was intended for sheet vinyl we have also used it. It saves time as you don't have to fashion the cove former to create a radius internally and it provides a smooth surface to apply our hygienic coatings.'
Alford said: 'We are immensely proud of our achievements in obtaining patent status and in particular contributing and giving something back to the industry we have served for many years. We just hope now that our efforts are recognised and our developments are seen as a positive step forward.'
