Zenbird Editorial TeamTOPPAN Inc. and hide kasuga 1896 have commenced the joint development of a hybrid safety floor. This new product integrates the biomass material TRANSWOOD® with TOPPAN’s established safety flooring technology. The partnership aims to address the growing demand for universal design in high-end spaces, such as luxury hotels, residences, and museums, with sales scheduled to begin in March 2027.
The development focuses on three core pillars: safety, aesthetics, and environmental performance. The flooring is designed to scientifically reduce the risk of bone fractures during falls, a significant social issue in Japan where falls are the third leading cause of individuals requiring long-term care. While safety floors were previously viewed as functional equipment for the elderly, this project seeks to redefine them as a premium interior element that enhances the value of a space without compromising on design.
The primary material, TRANSWOOD®, is a biomass-based composite developed under the concept of a “100-year circulation.” It consists of wood-derived materials, such as thinned wood, blended with biomass resin sourced from waste cooking oil. This composition contributes to the reduction of CO2 emissions and plastic consumption throughout the product’s life cycle. The material is already utilised in various sectors, including architecture and mobility.
TOPPAN’s contribution involves its safety floor technology, evaluating the impact load on the femur during a fall to minimise injury risks while maintaining a natural walking sensation and smooth movement for wheeled equipment like trolleys or wheelchairs. The existing technology is already recognised as a recommended product by the Japanese Society for Fall Prevention.
[Reference] hide kasuga 1896 News (Japanese)
