S.C. Code Regs. 61-102.F - Infection Control and Sanitation

Current through Register Vol. 46, No. 3, March 25, 2022

(1) General: The governing authority shall provide adequate space, equipment, and personnel to assure safe and aseptic treatment and protection of all patients and personnel against cross-infection. (II)

(2) Sterilization Procedures:

(a) Policies and procedures shall be established in writing for storage, maintenance and distribution of sterile supplies and equipment. (II)

(b) Sterile supplies and equipment shall not be mixed with unsterile supplies, and shall be stored in dust-proof and moisture-free units. They shall be properly labeled. (I)

(c) Sterilizing equipment of appropriate type shall be available and of adequate capacity to properly sterilize instruments and materials. The sterilizing equipment shall have approved control and safety features. The accuracy of instrumentation and equipment shall be checked at least quarterly by an approved method; periodic calibration and/or preventive maintenance shall be provided as necessary, and a log maintained. (II)

(d) The date of expiration shall be marked on all supplies sterilized in the facility. (I)

(3) Linen and Laundry:

(a) An adequate supply of clean linen or disposable materials shall be maintained. (II)

(b) Provisions for proper laundering of linen and washable goods shall be made. Soiled and clean linen shall be handled and stored separately. Storage shall be in covered containers. (II)

(c) A sufficient supply of cloth or disposable towels shall be available so that a fresh towel can be used after each handwashing. Towels shall not be shared.

(4) Sanitation:

(a) All garbage and waste shall be collected, stored and disposed of in a manner designed to prevent the transmission of disease. Containers shall be washed and sanitized before being returned to work areas. Disposable type containers shall not be reused. (II)

(b) All contaminated dressings, pathological and/or similar waste shall be properly disposed of by incineration or other approved means. (I)

(5) Housekeeping: (II)

(a) General: A facility shall be kept neat, clean and free from odors. Accumulated waste material must be removed daily or more often if necessary. There must be frequent cleaning of floors, walls, ceilings, woodwork, and windows. The premises must be kept free from rodent and insect infestation. Bath and toilet facilities must be maintained in a clean and sanitary condition at all times.

(b) Cleaning materials and supplies shall be stored in a safe manner. All harmful agents shall be locked in a closet or cabinet used for this purpose only.

(c) Dry sweeping and dusting of walls and floors are prohibited.

(6) Refuse and Waste Disposal: (II)

(a) Containers for garbage and refuse shall be covered and stored outside and placed on an approved platform to prevent overturning by animals, the entrance of flies or the creation of a nuisance. All solid waste shall be disposed of at sufficient frequencies in a manner so as not to create a rodent, insect or other vermin problem.

(b) Immediately after emptying, containers for garbage shall be cleaned.

(7) Outside Areas: All outside areas, grounds and/or adjacent buildings shall be kept free of rubbish, grass, and weeds that may serve as a fire hazard or as a haven for roaches, rodents and other pests. Outside stairs, walkways, ramps and porches shall be maintained free from accumulations of water, ice, snow and other impediments.

Notes

S.C. Code Regs. 61-102.F