Recent building tours by our Environment of Care Consultants have repeatedly observed incorrect air pressure relationships in critical and non-critical rooms. In most cases, the organization did not have a process to confirm proper air pressures. This is especially important for spaces used for operative or invasive procedures or other locations where controlling airborne contaminants is critical for patient safety.
Organizations must identify critical and non-critical rooms and the air pressure relationships required for each. They should have a means in place to validate that the air pressures are aligned with requirements. Per The Joint Commission, “For new and existing health care facilities, or altered, renovated, or modernized portions of existing systems or individual components (constructed or plans approved on or after July 5, 2016), heating, cooling, and ventilation are following NFPA 99-2012, which includes 2008 ASHRAE 170, or state design requirements if more stringent.” Consider routine spot checks for air pressure alignment without an automated monitoring system. Look for variations at different times of the day or when various doors are opened that may alter the pressure gradients.
Please contact us for questions or more information at 704-573-4535 or info@courtemanche-assocs.com.
Courtemanche & Associates specializes in Healthcare Accreditation and Regulatory Compliance Consulting Services. With over 30 years of being in business and 100+ years of healthcare experience amongst our consulting team, we are ready to assist with your accreditation and regulatory compliance needs.
