Safe Water in Healthcare

Safe Water and Drainage in Healthcare enables users from different disciplines to understand all types of waterborne hazards which can pose a risk to those who might be exposed, the events which cause them to be present, what may precipitate an increase in their levels that may cause harm, and how they can be avoided or managed to reduce risk. The handbook highlights microorganisms that can cause infections, the modes of transmission, the infections they cause and the risks from water and drainage systems. The authors draw from their extensive practical experience assisting with day-to-day problems that range from minor issues to outbreaks. They offer case studies on the growth of biofilms and where they cause problems in water system as well as providing practical answers to a majority of issues that arise in healthcare water and drainage systems. Safe Water and Drainage in Healthcare is an accessible handbook that fills the gaps for those without technical knowledge for a complex but important area of infection control. This book provides practical guidance for professionals who are required to design, manage, and maintain water systems and help them to manage infection outbreaks associated with them as well as professionals in various disciplines involved in ensuring water safety for all users within healthcare premises. Discusses waterborne pathogens, their detection, identification, and surveillance and describes the extent and range of recognized and emerging waterborne microorganisms as well as the diseases that occur and consequences to patients and staff Covers hazards that can cause harm within water systems and associated equipment, the circumstances or factors that increase the risks, and the multiple modes of transmission of waterborne pathogens Explains the importance of good design including the type of design, management, hardware as well as software that can help manage and control the presence of waterborne pathogens Stresses the role of Water Safety Groups (WSGs) and the implementation of Water Safety Plans (WSPs) and who needs to be involved at each stage to ensure that patients are kept safe from waterborne pathogens taking account of current legislation and best practice guidance