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Cleanability and Maintenance of Performance Fabrics in Healthcare: What Specifiers Need to Know Today

July 11, 2023
While the pandemic may have receded from view, the need for cleanability and disinfection in healthcare settings remains as stringent as ever, and durable coated fabrics are rising to the challenge.

Health and wellness undoubtedly have become a trend in recent years, particularly in the face of a pandemic, but many product manufacturers and experts in the healthcare space have understood the importance of proper cleaning and maintenance to avoid the spread of bacteria and viruses. In this episode, Jane Rohde, principal of JSR Associates and representative for the American Academy of Healthcare Interior Designers, shares her insights on the development of research, performance standards and test methods as part of her work with the Durable Coated Fabrics Task Group. She’s joined by Bill Fisch, president of The Mitchell Group, that recently announced a strategic partnership with CloroxPro to test its products for cleanability and disinfection. Listen in as these industry veterans share insightful information with regards to the challenges with cleaning and disinfection of durable coated fabrics in healthcare settings.

Jane Rohde, founding principal, JSR Associates

Jane Rohde, AIA, FIIDA, ASID, ACHA, CHID, LEED AP BD+C, GGA – EB, is the founding principal of JSR Associates Inc. in Catonsville, MD. JSR Associates Inc. celebrates 25 years of consulting services in 2021. Jane is the recipient of the 2015 Environments for Aging Changemaker Award and in 2018 she received the ASID Design for Humanity Award, was recognized as an Honorary Alumni of Clemson University’s Architecture + Health program, and has been honored as one of 10 notable Women in Design. For more information or comments, please contact Jane Rohde at [email protected] or “Chat with Jane” at www.jsrassociates.net.

Bill Fisch, president, The Mitchell Group

Bill was introduced to the coated fabric business in 1982 by his father, industry veteran Mitchell Fisch, after graduating from The University of Arizona with a BS in Marketing. In the 1990’s Bill led the growth of coated fabric-matched products to leather for residential furniture markets, making leather coverings in home furnishings more affordable to the consumer.

As president of Mitchell Fabrics, he leads the company’s product development from technical, fashion, and quality assurance perspectives. Bill is happily married to Ann Brunett, his partner at Mitchell; together they have four children and two really great dogs.

About the Author

Robert Nieminen | Chief Content Director

Robert Nieminen is the Chief Content Director of Architectural Products, BUILDINGS and i+s, sister publications of Smart Buildings Technology. He is an award-winning writer with more than 20 years of experience reporting on the architecture and design industry.

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