Who is the course for

This Introduction to decontamination operations course is intended for anyone who has a need to know about decontamination but who is not familiar with it – members of the board, estates and facilities managers from other backgrounds, other stakeholders.

It is also suitable preparation for attendees on DLR – Decontamination lead – role & responsibilities (to NHS guidance) who do not consider their knowledge and experience to be current.

Aims & objectives

To provide you with an overview of the requirements and constraints relating to decontamination facilities and equipment and in particular the role of the sterile services department (SSD) in the broader healthcare setting.

BY THE END OF THE COURSE YOU WILL BE ABLE TO:

– Describe the basic regulatory framework for decontamination with particular reference to the sterile services department

– List key sterilization and washer-disinfector processes and explain their necessity

– Briefly explain fundamental properties of “clean” steam

– Describe the basic operating principles of porous load sterilizers and washer disinfectors

– Briefly explain specific requirements for a select range of key periodic tests