Define responsibilities
The responsibilities of staff members should be clearly defined
and the person who will co-ordinate the control of an outbreak must
be identified.
Appoint a clean up team
It is recommended that a specialist clean up team be appointed who can
deal with gross contamination in the event of an outbreak of illness. This
team should comprise of existing staff members and be known as the Hit
squad.
Provide training
All staff who would be involved with an outbreak, either directly as part
of the Hit Squad, or indirectly, should be aware of the guidelines for
the management of an outbreak and have undertaken suitable training. Refresher
training should be carried out at regular periods.
Check equipment
Onsite there should always be at least one body spillage kit and
at least one fogging machine. Equipment, staffing and resources
identified for the control of an outbreak should be accessible at
all times and regularly checked or serviced. All chemicals should
be kept in storage that is safe and secure. If there is an in-house
laundry, ensure that the washing machines are able to achieve a
wash cycle temperature in excess of 60 degrees Centigrade. Contact
the equipment supplier for information on how to store and use the
decontamination equipment.
Identify contacts
It is recommended that contacts be identified both within the local
Environmental Services and G.P.’s practice. This will mean
that in the event of an outbreak, advice and assistance for staff
and guests will be readily available. A contract cleaner should
be identified who will be able to supply adequate staff at short
notice, they should have the relevant expertise and have trained
staff. You may need them to provide cover for the whole day or in
the event of significant staff illness.
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