Reference/Features

Minimising infection risks from fixtures and fittings

5 mins read CQC requirements Decontamination/HTM 01-05 Risk management
Harmful bacteria can colonise many areas, including furniture, fittings and the physical structure of the practice building. Practices should carry out risk assessments, set up cleaning schedules and record when items are cleaned to reduce potential risks to patients and staff

Health Technical Memorandum 01-05: Decontamination in Primary Care Dental Practices (Department of Health (DH), 2013) builds on guidance in the Health and Social Care Act 2008 code of practice (DH, 2010). Under criterion 2 of the code, healthcare providers have a duty to ‘provide and maintain a clean and appropriate environment in managed premises that facilitates the prevention and control of infections’ (DH, 2010). Appendix B of the code covers dental practices.

The National Patient Safety Agency (NPSA), working with the Department of Health and the Care Quality Commission, produced a range of documents to help providers to fulfil their responsibilities.

The National Specifications for Cleanliness in the NHS: Guidance on Setting and Measuring Performance Outcomes in Primary Care Medical and Dental Premises (NPSA, 2010) has four main aims. These are to:

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