Revision of Scottish Health Facilities Note 30
Healthcare Associated Infection (HAI) is a priority issue for NHSScotland. A major programme of work to improve the prevention and control of HAI across NHSScotland was laid out in the Ministerial HAI Action Plan (HDL 2002 (82)'. Under the Chairmanship of the Chief Medical Officer (CMO), the HAI Task Force is now carrying out the programme of work highlighted in the Action Plan. Part of the HAI Task Force 3-year programme of work involves producing guidance on upgrading the physical environment for older buildings and reviewing the current guidance relating to prevention and control of infection in the built environment, the HAI Task Force Groups 6 & 8 have been charged with undertaking this work. These groups have been combined and are led by NHSScotland Property and Environment Forum.
Part of the Groups remit involves the revision of Scottish Health Facilities Note 30 Infection Control in the built environment: design and planning (SHFN 30), which was first published in 2002. The need for a revised document has become increasingly apparent in light of the determined focus being applied to reducing Healthcare Associated Infections (HAIs). This focus has highlighted the absolute need for initial, rigorous examination of proposals for new build healthcare facilities, extensions to healthcare facilities, and refurbishment of healthcare facilities in relation to prevention and control of infection. Having brought to light the need for a rigorous examination of proposals in relation to new healthcare facilities, good practice also requires an ongoing audit of existing healthcare facilities and the healthcare services being provided.
SHFN 30 is intended to guide and stimulate thinking on the planning and execution of new construction and refurbishment works in all types of healthcare facilities. The document is aimed at all those involved in the provision of new or refurbished facilities and aims to ensure that prevention and control of infection issues are identified, analysed and planned for at the earliest stage of a project.
Download the Consultation Document
Scottish Health Facilities Note 30 - Consultation Document (PDF, 15K, 3 secs)
How to Comment
In order to ensure that the document serves the needs of the users, a consultation will take place.
The consultation will close on Friday 08/07/05.
Comments should be returned either by email, to geraldine.obrien@pefex.scot.nhs.uk or by post to Geraldine O Brien NHSScotland Property and Environment Forum Executive, Empire House, 131 West Nile Street, Glasgow, G1 2RX.
Comments should not be passed to NHS Quality Improvement Scotland.
If you feel that there is another person or group who should be involved in this consultation, e.g. community health partnerships or infection control teams, please forward a copy of the document to them. Your participation in developing this document is very much appreciated.