In-Room Hepa Air Cleaners: Simple Technology with Complicated Implications

Authors

  • Sonia Pinkney Healthcare Human Factors, Centre for Global eHealth, University Health Network
  • Nancy Sikich Medical Advisory Secretariat, Ontario Ministry of Health and Long-term Care
  • Anthony Easty Medical Engineering, University Health Network

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate current practice related to in- room high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) cleaners and provide recommendations regarding best practice. Methods: Phone interviews were conducted with sixteen Ontario hospitals, to which six site visits were made, to understand how in-room HEPA cleaners were being used and supported. Standards were researched and an Infection Control Expert Panel was convened to establish best practice.

Results: There are over 500 in-room HEPA cleaners being used in over 100 Ontario healthcare organizations. However, there is a large variance in practice and a need for guidance targeted at the following issues: 1. There is insufficient knowledge regarding the risks and appropriate use of these units; 2. Best practice management processes were not always rigorously followed regarding the planning, use, and support of units.

Conclusions: A sequential series of recommendations has been compiled to support facilities to appropriately plan, acquire, operate and support in-room HEPA cleaners. 

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Published

2008-06-11

How to Cite

[1]
S. Pinkney, N. Sikich, and A. Easty, “In-Room Hepa Air Cleaners: Simple Technology with Complicated Implications”, CMBES Proc., vol. 31, no. 1, Jun. 2008.

Issue

Vol. 31 (2008)

Section

Academic