Must-Know Virus Prevention Strategies for Facility Managers

Facility managers are vital to maintaining safe and healthy environments, particularly in health-care settings where virus prevention is a constant concern. Their decisions impact the well-being of patients and the health of staff and visitors. This blog outlines must-know virus prevention strategies for facility managers to safeguard health-care spaces against potential health risks.

We’ll explore actionable steps to create safer health-care environments, from understanding the most common viruses to key mitigation strategies. These tips will help you stay prepared and proactive whether you’re managing a hospital, clinic, or long-term care facility.

Common Viruses Health-Care Facilities Must Deal With

Hospitals have a variety of threats they must deal with, many in the form of infectious viruses.

Influenza Viruses

Influenza viruses spread rapidly in health-care facilities, causing respiratory illnesses that can lead to severe complications, particularly in vulnerable populations, such as older adults and immunocompromised patients.

Norovirus

Norovirus is a highly contagious virus that causes gastrointestinal illnesses, leading to outbreaks of vomiting and diarrhea, which can easily disrupt health-care operations.

Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)

RSV primarily affects children and older adults, causing respiratory tract infections that can lead to severe consequences in health-care settings if not managed effectively.

Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus (MRSA)

While MRSA is a bacterial infection, it poses a significant threat in health-care facilities due to its resistance to many antibiotics, making it a persistent concern for staff and patients.

Hepatitis Viruses (Hepatitis B and C)

Hepatitis B and C viruses are transmitted through contact with infected blood or other body fluids, presenting ongoing risks to health-care workers and emphasizing the need for stringent safety protocols.

Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV)

Although we have made many advancements in HIV treatments, its presence in health-care settings highlights the importance of proper handling of medical instruments and patient interactions to prevent transmission risks.

Developing a Comprehensive Prevention Plan

A carefully crafted prevention plan serves as the foundation for virus control in health-care facilities. Here’s how to build an effective prevention plan:

• Perform a risk assessment to identify high-risk areas in your facility, such as patient rooms, operating theaters, and waiting areas.

• Establish detailed protocols for cleaning, disinfection, and the management of infectious waste.

• Work closely with infection control teams, health-care staff, and external service providers.

• Regularly update the plan based on emerging threats, such as seasonal flu or new viruses.

• Incorporate evidence-based practices into your policies for maximum effectiveness.

Whatever your plan looks like, you must be able to quickly communicate its policies across all levels of the organization to ensure everyone is on the same page.

Implementing Effective Cleaning and Disinfection Protocols

Thorough cleaning and disinfection are cornerstones of virus prevention. Facility managers must ensure their teams use the right products, techniques, and schedules for the best results.

Implement Strict Hygiene Practices

Ensure all health-care workers follow proper hand hygiene and sanitation protocols.

Utilize Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Equip staff with appropriate gloves, masks, gowns, and eyewear to reduce the risk of exposure to infectious agents.

Establish Needle Safety Measures

Use safety-engineered needles and sharps, and promote safe disposal practices to minimize the risk of needle-stick injuries.

Follow Vaccination Guidelines

Ensure all health-care workers are vaccinated against preventable diseases, including Hepatitis B.

Enforce Proper Sterilization Techniques

Regularly disinfect medical instruments and ensure compliance with sterilization standards.

Develop Exposure Response Protocols

Create clear guidelines for managing and reporting exposure incidents to ensure timely and effective action.

Prioritize Problem Areas

Focus on high-contact surfaces that many frequently touch, such as doorknobs, bed rails, and light switches.

Optimizing HVAC Systems for Air Quality

Properly maintained HVAC systems are crucial for maintaining indoor air quality and preventing the spread of airborne pathogens. Begin by ensuring regular inspection and maintenance of HVAC units to identify any issues that could compromise air circulation or filtration.

Use high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters that are capable of trapping small particles, including viruses and bacteria. Additionally, consider integrating ultraviolet (UV) light technologies within the HVAC system to further eliminate pathogens.

Educating and Training Staff

Providing comprehensive education and training to staff is essential for maintaining optimal indoor air quality. Ensure that team members are familiar with the operations and maintenance of HVAC systems, including filter replacements and the use of UV light technologies.

Conduct regular workshops and training sessions to update staff on best practices for reducing airborne contaminants and monitoring air quality. Encourage open communication, allowing employees to report any concerns or suggestions related to ventilation and air quality.

Outsource to Industrial Laundry Services

Outsourcing to industrial laundry services can significantly enhance efficiency and hygiene in your operations. These professional services have advanced equipment and high-capacity systems to handle large volumes of laundry while adhering to strict cleanliness standards.

Partnering with industrial laundry providers ensures the thorough cleaning and sanitation of uniforms, linens, and other fabrics, reducing the risk of contamination.

Tips for Finding the Right Industrial Laundry Service

Evaluate Experience and Reputation

Look for providers with a proven track record and positive reviews. Companies with extensive experience in the industry are more likely to deliver reliable and high-quality services.

Check for Compliance and Certifications

Ensure the service adheres to industry standards and holds certifications for health, safety, and environmental practices. These certifications confirm their commitment to maintaining cleanliness and sustainability.

Understand Their Capacity and Capabilities

Assess whether the provider has the equipment and capacity to meet your organization’s specific needs, including handling large volumes or specialty fabrics.

Review Delivery and Turnaround Times

Opt for a service that offers efficient pickup and delivery schedules with quick turnaround times to minimize disruptions to your operations.

Compare Costs and Offerings

Request detailed quotes from multiple providers to understand their pricing structure. Make sure the services provided align with your budget without compromising on quality.

Ask About Customization Options

Choose a provider willing to tailor their services to your unique requirements, whether it’s a specific cleaning process or specialized textile care.

Explore Customer Support Availability

Reliable customer support is crucial. Ensure the service provides clear communication channels for promptly addressing concerns or special requests.

Remember, a well-planned approach not only saves time and resources but also allows your team to focus on core responsibilities without being burdened by laundry management.

Building a Safer Health-Care Environment Through Proactive Prevention

Facility managers are at the forefront of creating safer spaces across every industry. Those working in health care can significantly reduce the risk of infections by exploring and implementing these must-know virus prevention strategies for facility managers.

Ultimately, proactive virus prevention is about fostering a culture of cleanliness, safety, and health. Therefore, facility managers often place such a strong emphasis on keeping clothing, bedding, and other linens free of pathogens. Armed with Renegade Brand’s hospital-grade laundry detergent, you can reduce the risk of transmission and infection. Take the first step today, and your health-care facility can better tackle challenges and provide a secure environment for all.