HOSPITALS
Hospital millwork must balance strict hygiene (infection control) with ADA accessibility. Surfaces must be non-porous, seamless, and able to withstand harsh hospital-grade disinfectants. Accessibility requires specific knee and toe clearances, accessible reach ranges, and compliant hardware to ensure universal usability by patients and staff.
Hygienic & Infection Control Requirements
Material Selection
Use non-porous, bacterial-resistant materials like solid surfaces (e.g., Corian), phenolic resin, or high-pressure laminates. Organic, unfinished wood or porous materials should be avoided in clinical areas as they can harbor microbes.
Seamless Construction
Minimize joints and crevices where dust, moisture, and pathogens can accumulate. Countertops, backsplashes, and sinks should feature seamless integration.
Easy Cleanability
Corners and edges (especially inside corners) should feature large, smooth radii (cove details) to prevent dirt entrapment and permit easy wiping.
Sealed to Walls
Backsplashes should be coved (a concave curve) to the wall to prevent dust and liquids from getting trapped behind the unit.
Accessibility Requirements
ADA Clearances
Counters and workstations must provide adequate knee clearance (at least 27 inches high, 30 inches wide, and 19 inches deep) and sufficient toe clearance to accommodate wheelchair users.
Reach Ranges
Built-in shelving, adjustable upper cabinets, and storage controls must be placed within accessible reach ranges. This typically means an unobstructed forward or side reach height of 15 to 48 inches from the floor.
Hardware
Drawer pulls, cabinet knobs, and door hinges must be operable with a closed fist, avoiding tight pinching or twisting motions (e.g., U-shaped pulls are favored over small knobs).
Counter Heights
Desks, registration counters, and work surfaces serving individuals in wheelchairs should sit at an accessible height (generally around 34 inches maximum).