Mental Health - BRE Group
Mental health product testing
It’s essential that new and existing products used in mental health settings are assessed for self-harm risks using an independent and standard approach. The Testing Guidance for Products in Mental Health Facilities enables manufacturers to confidently declare the performance of their product. It also enables specifiers and procurers to make safer choices for their clients.
Informed Choices: Testing Guidance for Products in Mental Health Facilities
Until now, there hasn’t been a standardised method of evaluating products for use in mental health settings. Our independent testing team has provided a solution.
In consultation with industry and collaboration with the Design in Mental Health Network (DiMHN) BRE has developed a detailed testing guide, with input from over 60 contributors.
The Testing Guidance for Products in Mental Health provides testing methodologies for materials, fixtures and hardware that have been specifically designed for use within mental healthcare facilities. It brings together the many disparate requirements for these products into one document to help suitably qualified experts to choose the most appropriate product.
This guide uses the Products for Mental Health Safeguarding (ProMHS) scheme to evaluate the performance of products.
Example lighting projectsWorking with major retailers and businessesWe reviewed design briefs, evaluated existing lighting schemes and implemented methods of reducing energy use while improving space appearance and user wellbeing. We also assessed the market for different forms of lighting and how it will develop in the future.
Daylight metricsDetailed computer modelling based research investigating the daylight provision calculation methods in BS EN 17037 and providing guidance for daylighting practitioners on applying the daylight assessment methods in the standard.
Circadian lightingField research on the effects of circadian lighting on occupants’ health and wellbeing, linked with control schedules to identify optimal control strategies for circadian lighting so that health and wellbeing benefits are maximised.
Artificial skylightsField research on the capability of artificial skylights to improve office work performance and productivity, as well as enhance space appearance. |
