Written by: Daryl Aiken, Project Manager in the Indoor Environmental Quality Group at Pinchin Ltd.
Hospital acquired infections can have devastating effects on Canadians and their families. According to the Canadian Institutes of Health Research, more than 250,000 patients develop hospital acquired infections each year. The responsibility for preventing these occurrences not only falls on healthcare providers, but also facility maintenance staff and contractors during planned and urgent construction, repair, and renovation projects.
In 2017, the CSA Group updated its standard Z317.13 which covers the roles and responsibilities for infection control during construction, renovation and maintenance at healthcare facilities. These facilities are not only limited to hospitals, but also include:
- Long-term care facilities
- Senior living centres
- Transitional and convalescent care facilities
- Dental Clinics
- Doctor’s Offices and many more
The updated standard also includes revised requirements for training for all parties involved in construction, renovation and maintenance projects including:
- Architects
- Engineers
- Constructors
- Contractors
These multi-disciplinary teams are required to make sure safe work procedures are developed and put into action from the start of the project.
Organizations and individuals who had previously completed training under the 2003, 2007, or 2012 versions of the standard should have refresher training under the revised standard to ensure they are aware of changes to the standard before beginning a new project.
For more information on how Pinchin’s infection control experts can help you get up to date on your requirements, contact me by calling 905-363-1292.
Our upcoming Infection Control in Healthcare Facilities courses are being held in Mississauga on July 25th & November 21st.
Click here for more information or to register.
