Dust and Debris Affecting Healthcare Construction: Preventive Guide Released

One of the several healthcare providers for construction workers, the University of Virginia Health System, has released an outline for infection control policies and procedures on Friday. This was done as an effort to minimize the impact of construction project environments on the health of the building workers present on site most of the time. 

This system of strict health observation required training and following guidelines to a dot. These guidelines are to be followed by the workers on the field during the construction process. The strictness and methods in the guide may vary depending upon the risk level of the construction worker doing a specific job.

The gist of the guidelines are counted out as follows.

1. Use negative pressure systems monitored with a continuous-read negative air pressure monitor, smoke test with daily log or handheld manometer with daily log.
2. Wait for patients to be removed before work begins in certain areas.
3. Replace displaced ceiling tiles.
4. Cleanup after work is complete by either wiping down the area or by using a HEPA ​(high-efficiency particulate air) vacuum.
5. Use approved ICRA (Infection Control Risk Assessment) containment barriers.
6. Control dust while cutting using water mist, a HEPA vacuum or other effective measures.
7. Seal unused doors with painters' tape.
8. Use dust control mats and all points of access.
9. Transport construction waste out of the work area using clean containers with hard covers.
10. Isolate the HVAC system in areas where work is going on to prevent contamination of the ducts system.

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Published By
Rajib Dey
www.constructioncost.co
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