Point-of-Use Water Disinfection Technology
Reactive Oxygen Species ( ROS ): An innovative method of reducing pathogens in water is the use of point-of-use ( POU ) of ROS such as superoxide radicals , hydrogen peroxide , and hydroxyl radicals , are molecules that can cause oxidative stress and damage to pathogen cellular components . Water , on the other hand , is a fundamental molecule that supports life and biochemical processes by acting as a solvent and facilitating various reactions within cells but does not kill any bacteria .
Germicidal Ultraviolet Light : The most effective systems are those ultraviolet lights with the C wavelength ( UVC ) at 254 nanometers , which can easily disinfect the incoming or return water lines .
Copper-Silver Ionization : The proposal of using hot water produced at the central boiler room , treated through a copper / silver ionization system for bacterial control , is a proactive step to ensure safe water distribution . This measure , particularly in combating bacteria like Legionella , is both prudent and necessary for safeguarding the wellbeing of all stakeholders in a healthcare facility .
Hand Hygiene Sinks That Use Ozonated Water : A smart flow sink that uses ozonated water to eliminate bacteria both on hands and on the sink itself is an easy way to eliminate harmful pathogens that collect in the P-trap below hand hygiene sinks . Ozonated water has been shown to be more effective than soap and water for bacterial removal from hands . This sink also provides a source of ozonated water for general cleaning and sanitizing . Convenient and twice as powerful as bleach , the sink is programmed to disinfect itself automatically , every hour , eliminating CPOs ( Carbapenem-producing organisms , like Kleb ’ s pneumonia and E . coli ) and preventing biofilm formation in the P-trap to prevent CPO outbreaks in a healthcare facility . And the system does not generate ozone into the air .
Engineering and Process Control Steps to Maintain Water Quality
Water Quality Measurement : Incorporating technology to monitor water quality parameters like hardness , pH , and total dissolved solids ( TDS ) is a crucial step toward ensuring the safety and suitability of water for various purposes . By setting and adhering to quality standards , you ’ re building a foundation for a consistent and reliable water supply throughout the facility .
Eliminate Dead-End Piping : Toward this end , it is important that a healthcare facility identify dead-end piping systems and segregate them from the active water lines . Keep in mind that most water distribution systems flow through copper pipes .
Eliminate Aerators on Sink Faucets : Aerators on sink faucets collect minerals and pathogens so their use should not be allowed on any sink in the healthcare facility .
Eliminate the Traditional P-Trap Under Sinks : An innovative approach to significantly reducing pathogen-containing wet and dry biofilms in a traditional sink P-trap is to eliminate this 140-year-old method of sewer gas control with a straight vertical drainpipe . The sewer gas control is accommodated by using an automated negative-pressure system from the drain piping air vent with exhaust to the facility roof . In addition , gate or ball shut-off valves on the horizontal drain piping can be closed off periodically to have disinfectants poured into the sink drains with an appropriate amount of dwell time to kill the pathogens , and the piping then re-opened back up for regular use . Also , never dump patient medications , fluids , or feces in a sink . Always follow the facility ’ s standard operating procedures for these components .
Ice Machines Cleaning and Disinfection : These units commonly used for producing ice cubes and crushed ice can become contaminated if not properly maintained , cleaned and disinfected . Contamination of ice machines can pose health risks , as the ice produced may encounter harmful microorganisms and impurities . Here are some potential sources of contamination and steps to prevent it :
Microbial Contamination : Bacteria , molds , and yeast can grow in the water supply , ice bin , and ice-making components of the machine . These microorganisms can multiply and contaminate the ice cubes .
Prevention : Regularly clean and sanitize the ice machine according to the manufacturer ’ s recommendations . This includes cleaning the ice bin , water lines , and ice-making components . Use approved cleaning agents to eliminate microbial growth . Even better , ultraviolet light systems with the C wavelength ( UVC ) at 254 nanometers can easily disinfect the incoming water line . Another innovation would be to use modular ozonated water systems . An ozone generator system regularly sanitizes the water supply and kills bacteria , mold , and yeast . It produces an effective but safe amount of natural sanitizer that treats the machine interiors and sanitizes the remote storage bins and drains . No aerosolized ozone is dissipated into the air through this process .
Mineral Buildup : Over time , minerals from the water can accumulate in the ice machine , leading to scale build-up . This can affect the quality of the ice and the efficiency of the machine .
Prevention : Use a water filtration system to reduce mineral content in the water supply . Regularly de-scale the ice machine to remove mineral build-up . Follow the manufacturer ’ s instructions for use and de-scaling procedures plus the frequency .
Cross-Contamination : Improper handling of ice scoops and containers can lead to cross-contamination . If hands , containers , or utensils that are not properly sanitized encounter the ice , it can lead to contamination .
Prevention : Train staff in the proper hygiene practices when handling ice . Provide separate scoops for ice and other food items to prevent cross-contamination .
Airborne Contaminants : Airborne particles , dust , and debris can enter the ice machine and settle in the ice bin , leading to potential contamination .
Prevention : Keep the ice machine in a clean environment and regularly clean the surrounding
28 december 2023 • www . healthcarehygienemagazine . com