Construction Services for Healthcare Facilities

Building with Safety in Mind: Infection Control in Healthcare Facilities

Infection control is of paramount importance in healthcare facility construction. As healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) continue to pose risks to patients, staff, and visitors, it is crucial to address this critical issue during the construction and design phases of healthcare facilities.

• 1. The Impact of Infections on Healthcare Facilities

  • Understanding the consequences of HAIs on patient outcomes, healthcare costs, and reputation.
  • Exploring the prevalence and types of infections in healthcare settings.
  • Highlighting the importance of infection control in healthcare facility design and construction to mitigate risks.

• 2. Designing for Infection Control

  • Incorporating evidence-based design principles that mitigate infection risks, such as clear circulation paths, adequate spacing, and optimal room layouts.
  • Optimizing spatial layout and traffic flow to minimize cross-contamination opportunities.
  • Utilizing technologies like computerized modeling and simulation to evaluate design choices and identify potential infection control issues.

• 3. Ventilation and Filtration Systems

  • Engineering ventilation systems that promote effective air exchange and filtration.
  • Utilizing high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters and ultraviolet germicidal irradiation (UVGI) for air purification.
  • Considering the use of displacement ventilation systems and laminar airflow in critical areas to reduce airborne transmission risks.

• 4. Surface Materials and Finishes

  • Selecting antimicrobial and easy-to-clean materials for high-touch surfaces, such as door handles, countertops, and handrails.
  • Evaluating the effectiveness of copper-infused surfaces in reducing microbial contamination.
  • Promoting the use of non-porous materials to minimize microbial harborage areas and facilitate effective cleaning and disinfection.

• 5. Plumbing and Water Management

  • Designing plumbing systems to prevent waterborne infections, including Legionella.
  • Implementing strict water management protocols, including temperature monitoring, flushing schedules, and water quality testing.
  • Incorporating backflow prevention measures to mitigate cross-contamination risks.

• 6. Construction Practices for Infection Control

  • Establishing construction protocols to minimize dust, debris, and microbial spread during the construction process.
  • Utilizing temporary barriers and negative air pressure zones during construction to prevent the spread of contaminants.
  • Conducting regular cleaning and disinfection to maintain a hygienic construction site and prevent cross-contamination.

• 7. Training and Collaboration

  • Educating construction teams, architects, and contractors on infection control protocols and best practices.
  • Encouraging collaboration between infection control specialists, architects, and engineers to ensure the seamless integration of infection control measures.
  • Fostering a culture of infection prevention through interdisciplinary training programs and ongoing education.

• 8. Post-Construction Monitoring and Evaluation

  • Conducting post-construction surveillance to assess the effectiveness of infection control measures.
  • Implementing ongoing monitoring and evaluation programs to identify and address potential vulnerabilities.
  • Leveraging technology and data analytics for real-time monitoring of infection rates and trends, allowing for timely interventions and improvements.