Utah Admin. Code R432-500-23 - Laundry Services

(1) Each licensee shall ensure there are provisions for storage and processing of clean and soiled linen as required for patient care.

(a) The licensee shall ensure processing is done within the facility, in an on or offsite building, or in a commercial or shared laundry.

(b) If the licensee contracts for laundry service, the licensee shall ensure there is a signed, dated agreement that details any services provided.

(c) The licensee shall ensure that the laundry service meets each requirement of this section.

(d) If the licensee processes laundry on the premises, the licensee shall employ a qualified person to direct the facility's laundry service. The person shall have experience or training in the following:

(i) proper use of the chemicals in the laundry;

(ii) proper laundry procedures;

(iii) proper use of laundry equipment;

(iv) appropriate facility policy and procedures; and

(v) appropriate federal regulations, state rules, and local laws.

(2) If laundry is processed by a commercial laundry that is not part of the facility, the licensee shall provide the following:

(a) a separate room, vented to the outside, for holding and sorting soiled linen until ready for transport;

(b) a central, clean linen storage area in addition to the linen storage provided in each unit with enough central storage capacity for the facility's operation;

(c) a separate storage area to maintain clean and soiled linen carts away from traffic areas; and

(d) handwashing facilities in each area where unbagged soiled linen is handled.

(3) If laundry is processed either within the facility or in a separate building, the licensee shall provide for the following:

(a) receiving, holding, and sorting room for control and distribution of soiled linen. Soiled linen chutes may empty into this room;

(b) a laundry room with washing machines and dryers adequate for the quantity and type of laundry to be processed;

(c) a clean storage room with space and shelving adequate to store one-half of any laundry being processed;

(d) convenient access to employee lockers and lounge;

(e) storage for laundry supplies;

(f) storage area for clean and soiled linen carts out of traffic;

(g) traffic pattern through laundry area that is:

(i) from building corridor to receiving and sorting or soiled linen room;

(ii) from sorting soiled linen room to washroom;

(iii) from washroom to a dry room that is separated from the washroom by a wall with a door;

(iv) from dry room to clean storage or covered and protected building corridor; and

(v) air flow is positive in direction moving from clean to soiled then to the exterior.

(4) Each licensee shall develop and implement policies and procedures relevant to operation of the laundry. The licensee shall review and update policies and procedures annually and ensure they address:

(a) methods to handle, store, transport, and process clean, soiled, contaminated, and wet linens;

(b) water temperature to wash laundry that is at least 150 degrees F, or 66 degrees C, unless the laundry equipment manufacturer recommends other temperatures, however, an automatic chemical sterilizing system may be used in lieu of 150 degrees F water with department approval;

(c) collection and transportation of soiled linen to the laundry in closed, leak-proof laundry bags, or covered impermeable containers. Separate linen carts labeled soiled or clean linen are constructed of washable material and laundered or suitably cleaned to maintain sanitation;

(d) the training of laundry personnel in proper procedures for laundry infection control;

(e) provision for adequate laundry equipment including washers, dryers, linen carts, and transport carts to maintain clean laundry for the facility;

(f) maintenance of laundry equipment in proper working condition; and

(g) provision for a lavatory with hot and cold running water, soap, and sanitary towels within the laundry area.

(5) The licensee shall ensure:

(a) clean linen is stored, handled, and transported in a manner to prevent contamination;

(b) clean linen is stored in clean closets, rooms, or alcoves used only for that purpose;

(c) clean linen is covered if stored in alcoves or transported through the facility;

(d) clean linen from a commercial laundry is delivered to a designated clean area in a manner that prevents contamination;

(e) linens are maintained in good repair;

(f) a supply of clean linen and other supplies are provided and available to staff to meet the needs of patients;

(g) soiled linen is handled, stored, and processed to prevent the spread of infections;

(h) soiled linen is sorted by methods to protect from contamination, and as specified in facility policy;

(i) soiled linen is stored and transported in a closed container that prevents airborne contamination of corridors and areas occupied by patients, and precludes cross contamination of clean linens; and

(j) laundry chutes are maintained in a clean sanitary condition.

Notes

Utah Admin. Code R432-500-23

Amended by Utah State Bulletin Number 2023-17, effective 8/10/2023