We pride ourselves on providing specialist cleaning solutions to real-world situations. We know that we do an excellent job, and our clients consistently give us positive feedback. But we can’t always reveal who our clients are. Sometimes it’s an issue of commercial confidentiality; other times, there may be security sensitivities. This presents us with a problem when we want to produce case studies of our work. So to illustrate one of our main service areas, we thought we’d outline how we approach the task of regular cleaning at a major London teaching hospital.
Cleaning standards in hospitals, towards lower rates of infection
The first part of our approach is to understand what needs to be done. It may be self-evident that cleanliness and hygiene are critical to the safe operation of the healthcare service. But they clearly present a massive challenge to deliver across the modern healthcare system. That’s why the Health Act 2006 code of practice places clear responsibility on the care provider to clean properly.
The NHS subsequently published a framework for setting and measuring performance outcomes for cleaning hospitals. This set out the importance to think of cleaning both strategically and operationally, setting a cleaning plan which is adequately resourced and successfully executed. This must also include setting out clear lines of responsibility for cleaning. By contracting out cleaning to a specialist cleaning company such as React, NHS hospitals can demonstrate that this is happening.
The government published a revised specification for cleaning hospitals in 2014. This reflected concerns over the effects of poor cleaning in successive high-profile cases. In particular, there was concern over the prevalence of ‘superbugs’, strains of bacteria which are resistant to antibiotics. A key purpose of cleaning hospitals is to reduce rates of hospital-acquired infections.
21st-century
A 21st-century hospital is a complex environment to keep clean. Not only is it important to clean everywhere, but it’s also vital to pay special attention to certain key areas. In the case of our London hospital client, it’s a particular challenge due to the differing built environments throughout the hospital. It encompasses both original Victorian and Edwardian buildings, and sleek modern buildings which opened around fifteen years ago.
Our dedicated NHS cleaning team operates to leading industry standards and within the framework set out by the NHS and government. The team is highly trained, medically fit, well-equipped, security cleared and inoculated to protect themselves from hazard. In the case of our London hospital client, we undertake regular clinical contract cleaning (day and night shifts). This includes deep cleaning of wards, consultation rooms and theatre areas as well as kitchen facilities, restrooms and storage facilities. But we don’t overlook waiting rooms, public areas and corridors.
A particular area of expertise for us is our Infection Control Service. This successfully reduces the risk of infections, providing protection against MRSA, Swine Flu, C. difficile and Norovirus. With this service, we pay particular attention to operating theatres and endoscopy facilities, as well as general wards. We are also a licensed waste carrier with a fully traceable waste disposal system, which means that we can undertake clinical waste removal and sharps disposal.
For our London hospital client, we’re able to demonstrate that we fit into their strategic cleaning plan. We improve the environment for patients, staff and visitors alike. And we work tirelessly to reduce the risks of infection across the hospital. That’s the power of specialist cleaning.
To discuss our hospital cleaning services, from regular contracts to emergency cleaning, contact one of the React team today.
Telephone: 01283 550 503
Email: info@reactplc.co.uk
Website: www.reactsc.co.uk
Post by Shaun D. Doak
Shaun is the Managing Director of React Specialist Cleaning. He is deeply committed to making sure that every one of our company’s clients receives the highest possible level of service. An expert in HVAC and commercial and industrial cleaning methodologies, Shaun has extensive experience in the facilities management and renewable services sectors.