Initiative Workgroups
Each workgroup consists of cross-industry team members who have made a commitment to identify specific project deliverables that will be their group's focus throughout the year. They will work collaboratively to fulfill initiative goals and objectives that support the mission of the Healthcare Surfaces Institute.
Education
Chair, Ellen Turner
Create and disseminate tools, resources, educational material, and other critical information for providers, patients, and the public to reduce transmission of surface related pathogens. A range of materials including infographics, presentations, checklists, training parameters, and educational curricula will be developed to target individuals at all levels of awareness to improve their knowledge, skills, and ability to act as agents of change.
Research
Chair, Matthew Hardwick
Utilize broad-based evidence for prevention of infections in healthcare and other settings to design and disseminate a toolbox to help interrupt the spread of infections from surfaces.
Standards and Utilization
Chair, Darrel Hicks
Research and recommend surface hygiene testing methods with real-time, objective measurements. Review current cleaning, disinfection, and sterilization guidelines and unify testing and validation methods. Co-develop an education and certification program for professionals. Provide scientific sights in support of regulatory standards and guidance. Develop “Designed for Maintainability Guideline” to empower and support healthcare professionals in the selection of safer surfaces.
Participants in each of the workgroups include:
Manufacturing and Engineering expertise
Infection Prevention
Facilities Management
Environmental Services
Regulatory Agencies
Academia
Microbiologists
Occupational Health