Each year over 2 million hospital associated infections are reported to the CDC (Centers for Disease Control) by North American hospitals. In excess of 100,000 deaths result from these pathogens many of which are resistant to traditional antibiotics.

Health Care is a dynamic market segment that is always in a growth pattern. This market is not limited to hospitals but includes, clinics, day surgery centers and long term care facilities etc.  All such facilities may have a patient population that is immune compromised and as such their ability to fight off infections is limited.  Most of the pathogens that exist in the health care environment are bacterial molds (referred to as "fungal infections") and are a serious issue with a high mortality rate.

The restoration contractor plays an important role when remediation is required,  but most - this author has found, are not prepared for the changes in restoration procedures that they must implement. An example is the need to comply with a hospitals ICRA plan.

ICRA (Infection Control Risk Assessment) is a living document that the hospital must implement when various levels of restoration are undertaken. This plan speaks to risk management issues that are required to protect the patient population. The restoration contractor should be familiar with the ICRA and follow its guidelines. Further many pathogens found in the health care setting are likely to be resistant to many of your chemical cleaning agents (anti-microbials) unless special application is used with significant dwell time.

Education of the restoration contractor on how best to succeed in the health care market is essential, and once completed can lead to a new market for your services

by:  Irv Kraut, Industrial Hygienist
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