Who is the course for

This course is for healthcare estates staff who manage, operate, maintain, monitor and repair water distribution systems and associated equipment and who have specific roles and responsibilities in relation to water systems and who need refresher training.

The course builds upon previous training experience and updates you with recent changes in the field and current case studies. Therefore prior knowledge and training is essential.

How often should I complete this refresher training?

We suggest that refresher training for Responsible/Authorised Persons (Water) is undertaken every 3 years.

Aims & objectives

To update learners of any changes to legislative, regulatory, mandatory and guidance documents relating to water hygiene and safety in healthcare buildings.

To discuss management and control measures to mitigate the risks associated with microbiological, chemical and physical issues of the water distribution systems, outlets and associated equipment.

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

– State the requirements of legislation and regulations for water distribution systems and explain the significant changes to and the mandatory requirements of best practice guidance including HTM 04-01 (2016).

– State the prominent waterborne pathogens – occurrence, ecology and transmission routes and the consequence of contamination of the water systems from these and discuss other water safety issues including chemical and physical contamination.

– Describe the ways in which water distribution systems, cooling towers, outlets, components and associated equipment can become contaminated and methods of preventing contamination.

– State the responsibilities of individuals to prevent contamination of the water distribution system and outlets and assist in ensuring control measures in place are effective Identifying appropriate personal hygiene, cleanliness of equipment, tools, materials and storage.

– Identify methods of on-line and off-line disinfection of water systems and calculate appropriate quantities for disinfection with pH correction.

– Describe methods of sampling and appropriate aseptic techniques.

– Describe the function, role and responsibilities of the ‘Duty Holder’ and ‘Responsible Person’ (ACoP L8), the professional support structure in HTM 00 and how it can be applied to support water safety and understand the value and application of a ‘permit to work’ system to water safety management.

– Explain risk assessment, maintenance of log books and records in relation to compliance with regulations identify the elements of a suitable and sufficient risk assessment, risk minimisation scheme and action plan.

– Explain the role and responsibilities of the Water Safety Group.

– List the essential elements of a Water Safety Plan.