Medical & Legal Guidelines for Hospital Infrastructure to Prevent Infections

The infrastructure of hospitals is critical to infection control and patient safety. According to guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the American Society for Healthcare Engineering (ASHE), and the Association for Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology (APIC), the design, construction, and maintenance of healthcare facilities play a key role in preventing healthcare-associated infections (HAIs). In particular, healthcare environments must be designed with materials that minimize the risk of microbial growth and provide easy-to-clean, non-porous surfaces. This includes walls, floors, and ceilings that prevent moisture buildup, as mold and bacteria thrive in humid conditions. The CDC stresses that infection control personnel should be involved in the design and renovation processes from the outset to ensure that infection prevention measures are properly integrated into the infrastructure. The APIC further highlights that smooth surfaces and antimicrobial coatings can significantly reduce the ability of microorganisms to settle and proliferate on surfaces. Moreover, ASHE emphasizes the importance of proper ventilation systems and the control of airflow patterns to prevent the spread of pathogens in healthcare spaces. Collectively, these organizations stress that hospital environments should be designed to limit the risk of infection, protect patients and staff, and ensure spaces are conducive to quick and effective cleaning, all of which are essential for safeguarding public health and preventing outbreaks within healthcare settings.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

American Society for Healthcare Engineering (ASHE)

Association for Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology (APIC)

Infection Prevention and Control (IPAC)