Comfortable and easy to use for staff and patients, the design of the porter’s chair aids cleaning after every use.
Designer: Minima
Manufacturer: Vernacare
The problem
Porter’s chairs pose a particular problem because they travel all over the hospital and are used by staff, patients and visitors, yet their design makes thorough cleaning difficult.
The solution
A sturdy, lightweight porter’s chair made up of fewer moving parts than traditional models, making it easy to clean and more hygienic to use.
How it works
The chair’s tough metal frame is protected by a smooth, durable plastic body, which is both lightweight and easy to clean. Rotationally-moulded plastic creates large, uninterrupted surfaces, reducing external joins which can harbour dirt and bacteria.
Improvements in the design of the body, footrest, wheels and braking system mean staff and patients no longer have to handle parts of the chair that come into contact with the floor, reducing the risk of spreading dirt. Improved design also makes it easier for patients to get into and out of the chair.
Integrated storage space means patients don’t have to carry their belongings on their lap. The new chair can also house gas canisters, detergent wipes and other medical equipment.
The designers' insights
In this short film, designers Minima discuss the design of the Porter's Chair.