COVID-19 Ramps Up Hazards in Healthcare

UV disinfection and masks can create issues for staff, occupants and visitors


The COVID-19 pandemic continues to impact every aspect of healthcare, from information technology and field hospital construction to infection control.

A recent compilation of health technology hazards by ECRI Institute and reported by Health Leaders reflect the challenges many facility managers face on a daily basis. Consider these two examples:

Ultraviolet (UV) disinfection. If not used properly, UV disinfection devices might not deliver a sufficient dosage of UV rays to subdue microorganisms, leaving people at risk of exposure to these microorganisms. Surfaces to be disinfected should be in a direct line of sight, and should first be cleaned of soil, and users must take appropriate safety precautions to protect themselves and others from UV light exposure.

Masks. Imported N95 masks might fail to protect workers from infectious respiratory diseases

In particular, especially some N95 masks imported from China. Testing through December 2020 determined that more than 60 percent of the imported masks tested failed to filter airborne particles as well as claimed.

Click here to read the article.



February 3, 2021


Topic Area: Infection Control


Recent Posts

IAQ and Infection Mitigation: Plans Into Actions

To support quality patient care and ensure compliance, managers must stay ahead of environmental and IAQ risks.


Case Study: How NYU Langone Rebuilt for Resilience After Superstorm Sandy

Although the damage was severe, it provided a valuable opportunity for NYU Langone to assess structural vulnerabilities and increase facility resilience.


Dayton Children's Hospital Announces New Rehabilitative Services Building

The new location will feature convenient surface parking, outdoor space to aid in healing and a single-level layout.


The Debate on Laundering Microfibers in Healthcare

Should microfibers be single-use or reusable? Researchers have opinions on both.


Construction Begins for New Cancer Center at OhioHealth's Administrative Campus

The project’s completion date is estimated for late 2028.


 
 


FREE Newsletter Signup Form

News & Updates | Webcast Alerts
Building Technologies | & More!

 
 
 


All fields are required. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

 
 
 
 

Healthcare Facilities Today membership includes free email newsletters from our facility-industry brands.

Facebook   Twitter   LinkedIn   Posts

Copyright © 2023 TradePress. All rights reserved.