In order to assist healthcare industry workers and professionals choose handwashing equipment that is compliant with best practice guidelines as required by NHS authorities (HTM64) and the CQC, we have written a guide to equipment required to meet these standards:
Scope
Relevant sectors will include medical, minor surgery, general practitioners & dental practitioners. This may also be helpful for non invasive healthcare practitioners such as opticians
Infection Control
Hand Hygiene is considered one of the most critical elements in reducing the spread of infection. Whilst the remit for infection control is widespread and should be considered in its’ entirety, the guidance in this article refers only to the provision of equipment for hand washing facilities.
Hand Wash Basins, Sinks & Taps
- Basins & Sinks should not have overflow, plugs or chain stays
- Taps should be elbow operated (extended lever), sensor operated or knee operated
- The spout must not be located directly over the waste outlet as this can lead to splash back of micro-organisms from the waste drain
- A free draining unslotted (non overflow) waste outlet without plug should be fitted to sink/waste
Supplementary Equipment
- Hand disinfectant and soap dispensers should be of the wall mounted types
- Paper towels must always be used and towel dispensers should be wall mounted within easy access of the washbasin
- A foot operated pedal bin should be used in conjunction with the above
Location
As a guide, the hand washing facility should be away from areas where splashing occurs and should be outside curtained examination rooms where applicable.
This article can be found on Notjusttaps. Please contact the technical sales department if you need any advice or would like to discuss the selection of suitable sinks and taps.