Healthcare Organizations use a variety of chemicals in everyday operations. One of the most prevalent is the use of cleaning chemicals that support keeping the environment and equipment disinfected and ready for patient use. However, these chemicals can pose a significant risk if accessed by unauthorized personnel. Unfortunately, our consultant teams are finding opportunities with accessible cleaning chemicals.
Often, these opportunities include unlocked environmental services closets where chemicals are frequently stored. Staff either forget to lock these closets or the locks are malfunctioning. Additionally, we sometimes observe unlocked environmental service carts that have stored chemicals outside of patient rooms or unattended in hallways. This can be a substantial risk where there are pediatric visitors/patients or where there may be patients at risk for self-harm. Also, we often find cleaning chemicals stored in unlocked cabinetry in common areas such as unit pantries or under sinks.
Leaders should ensure that hazardous chemical access is addressed through staff training. Staff should ensure they observe for unlocked access to chemicals with environmental rounding. Access locks on doors and carts should be inspected for proper functioning and replaced as necessary.
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.