Who is the course for

This course is for healthcare technicians who operate, maintain, monitor and repair water distribution systems and associated equipment and who have specific roles and responsibilities in relation to water systems.

The course is also appropriate for non-healthcare technicians who are involved in delivering engineering maintenance, repair and monitoring of water systems in healthcare premises under contractual arrangements, who need to have an in- depth understanding of water hygiene and safety in healthcare.

Aims & objectives

To enable learners to gain an understanding of the relevant statutory instruments and the recommendations of the best practice guidance HTM 04-01.

To be able to apply these whilst undertaking roles and responsibilities in relation to water distribution systems in healthcare facilities, ensuring patient and staff safety from microbiological, chemical and physical risks.

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

– State the requirements of legislation and regulations for water distribution systems.

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

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

– Describe the responsibilities of individuals to prevent contamination of the water distribution system and outlets and assist in ensuring control measures in place are effective

– Identify appropriate personal hygiene, cleanliness of equipment, tools, materials and storage

– Identify methods of sampling and appropriate aseptic techniques.

– Identify risk assessments, 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.

– Identify the function, role and responsibilities of the ‘Duty Holder’ and ‘Responsible Person’ (ACoP L8) and explain the role and responsibilities of the Water Safety Group.