Part of: Ventilation and Ductwork
Dust and debris found in uncleaned ductwork, together with temperature and humidity levels, have been linked to the growth and spread of MRSA and other micro-organisms in hospitals. It is similar to how flu and other common cold infections spread through poorly maintained and uncleaned workplace systems.
Health care-associated infections (HCAI)
There is considerable evidence to show that uncleaned ventilation systems contribute to the development and spread of HCAIs.
Heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) systems are typically warm, humid and often damp environments – the perfect conditions for bacteria like MRSA and Clostridium difficile to thrive and, more importantly, spread.
How clean ductwork can combat HCAIs
Improving system filtration alone is rarely an effective measure to tackle the problem of bacteria growth and dissemination.
Only by thorough, regular system cleaning, coupled with improved filtration materials, can we expect a reduction in the spread of infections.
Hospital ventilation cleaning legal requirements
Under The Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations, building owners and managers have a legal obligation to ensure that enclosed workplaces are ventilated with fresh, purified air. If a mechanical system is provided, it must be cleaned, maintained, and inspected regularly. Good records need to be kept showing evidence that the ductwork continues to meet the regulations.
This duty of care is placed on all building owners, but has even greater emphasis when discussing a hospital environment where the risk of spreading infection and illness is greatest.
How we can help
Our specialists will carry out your ductwork cleaning with the minimum of disruption and using the latest hygiene methods, in accordance with industry standard TR19®.
Access to the relevant parts of the ventilation system are crucial in the cleaning process and our teams will be equipped to add access panels and doors, as required.
New hospital or renovation?
In general, the ventilation system is one of the first major services to be installed during a new build, or modified during refurbishment projects, and is prone to contamination from works such as drilling, carpentry, and plastering.
CDM regulations require a system to be cleaned before it is handed over to the client, and it is recommended that it be cleaned prior to commissioning, to avoid debris and dirt within the system affecting the commissioning and balancing. To avoid delays, ask us to survey your site and provide quotations at the planning stage.
