Rune M. Karlsen | Architect MNAL
Many people and organizations are involved in our projects, ranging from contractors and project managers to municipalities, clients, and architects. We spoke with Rune M. Karlsen, an architect at MNAL, who has worked on several projects where the Bano Turnable Toilet and other bathroom products from the Bano concept have been installed. We wanted to gain insight into his perspective on our bathroom solutions, the key considerations in such projects, and his experience working with us.
Over time, Bano has become an important contributor to the modernization of healthcare institutions, something we take great pride in. We recognized the need for solutions that enhance the freedom, safety, and dignity of individuals with disabilities, while also improving working conditions for healthcare staff. This vision led to the development of the Bano concept.
Want to learn more about the Bano concept? Read more here!
Upgrading bathrooms in healthcare institutions
Rune explains that many healthcare and nursing institutions across the country, especially older buildings, are in urgent need of upgrades to meet today’s standards for functionality and accessibility. “The Bano concept has proven to be essential in meeting the needs for upgrading bathroom and toilet solutions.”
He continues: Many healthcare and nursing institutions we’ve worked with don’t comply with current space requirements for bathrooms and toilets, as set by agencies like the Husbanken (Norwegian State Housing Bank) and the Arbeidstilsynet (Norwegian Labor Inspection Authority). This makes it challenging to create sufficient space for both the resident and caregiver. However, by utilizing Bano’s innovative products, such as turnable and height-adjustable toilets, we have been able to provide functional solutions that enhance daily life for those with mobility challenges, while also easing the burden on caregivers and improving working conditions.
Would you like to read more about Bano Turnable Toilet and how it works? Read more about it here.
Optimizing space and sunctionality
In one particular project, where the upgrade of shower and toilet facilities connected to resident rooms in a nursing home was required, it quickly became clear that the room sizes did not meet current regulatory standards. “With the Bano concept, especially the turnable toilet, we were able to optimize space around the toilet, creating room for caregivers to perform their duties without physical strain.” By turning the toilet, space is created both around and behind it—something that is impossible with conventional toilets that are fixed to the wall.
Learn more about how smaller bathrooms can lead to reduced public sector costs here.
Better adaptation for caregivers and users
Another key advantage of the Bano concept is its height-adjustable toilets. This allows caregivers to adjust their working positions, avoiding physical strain during daily care routines. This is especially important when working with residents who use aids such as wheelchairs or walkers. With a turnable and height-adjustable toilet, the toilet adapts to the user’s needs, not the other way around. This makes the process safer and easier for both the user and caregiver, Rune adds.
Collaboration with Bano – an important factor to success
It’s always valuable to hear how our partners experience collaboration after completing projects, and it’s especially rewarding to know that this collaboration has been a crucial factor in the success of various projects—something we appreciate.
During the process of implementing Bano products in this particular project, our close collaboration with Bano’s local office in Bergen was pivotal. We received continuous support throughout the entire process, from choosing the right solutions and products to assistance with applications to relevant authorities like the Arbeidstilsynet (Norwegian Labor Inspection Authority) and the Husbanken (Norwegian State Housing Bank.) This close cooperation ensured that we could deliver solutions that not only met the needs of both residents and caregivers but also adhered to all necessary regulations, Rune explains.
Laying the foundation for a successful project
Ensuring that both the client and employees are well-acquainted with the Bano concept before the project begins is vital. In projects where spatial requirements cannot be fully met, it’s important that all parties understand how Bano products can provide functional and nearly optimal solutions for bathrooms and showers. This shared understanding is key to achieving a successful project, Rune explains.
The collaboration with Bano has been close and productive, resulting in projects that successfully prioritize functionality and ergonomics, says Rune M. Karlsen.
Want to read about Metodisthjemmet in Bergen and their experiences with the Bano bathroom concept? Check out this article we’ve written.