In the demanding environment of modern healthcare, efficient and organised storage is not a luxury, but a necessity. Health Technical Memorandum 71 (HTM71), first published by the NHS in 1998, provides a blueprint for a materials management modular storage system that has revolutionised how healthcare facilities store and manage crucial supplies. This blog post will explore the key benefits of HTM71 modular storage and why it's a game-changer for hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies.
What is HTM71 Modular Storage?
At its core, HTM 71 is a system based on standardised components, most notably the ISO module storage tray measuring 600 x 400 mm. This standardisation is the foundation of the system's flexibility. The trays can be used interchangeably across a variety of compatible units, including cabinets, shelving, and trolleys, allowing for a seamless flow of stock from storage areas to patient care points. The use of dividers within the trays also allows for tailored, item-specific storage, maximising every inch of available space.
The Key Benefits of an HTM 71 System
Implementing an HTM 71 system can bring about a host of tangible benefits for any healthcare facility:
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Improved Space Utilisation: An NHS study found that using an HTM 71 system could lead to a 23% reduction in floor space compared to traditional storage. The modular design, which allows for the efficient use of vertical space and tailored storage for each item, means you can store more in a smaller footprint.
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Cost Reduction: By optimising space and reducing stock holding, HTM 71 systems can lead to a 12% reduction in cost. Furthermore, improved inventory management and stock rotation reduce waste from expired or obsolete items, saving money in the long run.
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Enhanced Operational Efficiency: With every item having a unique, fixed location, staff can quickly and easily find what they need. This streamlined process reduces time spent searching for supplies, allowing staff to focus more on patient care. The ability to move trays from a cabinet to a trolley and back again also simplifies stock control and distribution.
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Superior Hygiene and Safety: HTM 71 compliant units are built with durable, easy-to-clean materials, which is crucial for maintaining a sterile environment. Transparent containers ensure stock is always visible, and the ergonomic design of the units reduces the need for staff to bend and stretch, improving health and safety.
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Adaptability and Future-Proofing: The modular nature of the system allows for easy rearrangement of room layouts to suit changing needs. Whether you need to reconfigure a ward or a stockroom, an HTM 71 system provides the flexibility to adapt without major disruption.
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Patient Comfort and Safety: Well-designed fitted furniture, such as integrated headwall systems with oxygen and power outlets, or adjustable examination tables, can significantly improve patient comfort and accessibility. Securely fitted handrails and grab bars in bathrooms, for example, are vital for patient safety and mobility.
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Professional and Cohesive Aesthetics: A consistent and well-planned interior can contribute to a calming and professional atmosphere, which can positively impact patient perception and staff morale. Fitted furniture provides a sleek, integrated look, contributing to a more organised and reassuring environment.
Medspace Direct: Your Partner in HTM 71 Storage
As a proud distributor of HTM 71 storage solutions, we at Medspace Direct are committed to helping healthcare facilities achieve a more efficient and organised environment. Our parent company, Medspace Solutions, manufactures these high-quality items, ensuring that our products meet the rigorous standards set out by the NHS. From cabinets to trolleys and trays, our range is designed to maximise your space, streamline your workflows, and ultimately contribute to a safer and more effective healthcare setting.