Welcome to our hospital
We are committed to providing a safe and clean environment for all our patients. This leaflet is designed to provide important information about water safety while you are in the hospital, to help prevent infections and keep you safe during your stay.
Water safety in the hospital
Water is essential for daily care, but it can also pose risks, especially for those with weakened immune systems. In this leaflet, you will find important guidelines about water safety, including how to protect yourself.
Sink usage
Proper use of sinks is essential. Please follow the guidelines below to help reduce the risk of infections.
- The sink in your bedroom should be used for hand washing only.
- It is important not to dispose of any liquids or food waste down the sinks as this helps germs to multiply in the drains.
- Kitchen utensils including, plates, bowls, knives, forks, spoons, cups, glasses, bottles must not be washed in sinks. All items will be collected by staff and cleaned using an industrial dishwasher that it designed to clean utensils and remove germs.
- Do not use the taps in your room for drinking water. Drinking water will be provided by catering staff. If you need a drink, please let a member of staff know.
- Do not use sinks to wash any items of clothing.
- To maintain a hygienic environment and reduce the risk of contamination, please refrain from storing any personal items on sinks.
Splash risks
Drains in hospitals, including those in sinks, showers, can pose a risk of contamination if they become clogged or are unable to drain. Splashes from drains can spread germs that could, potentially cause infections.
To minimize the risks from drains, consider the following guidelines:
- Do not store any personal items within two metres of a sink.
- Always use sinks in a way that minimises splashing.
- If you notice that a tap or drain is causing excessive splashing, notify hospital staff immediately.
- Excessive water splashing can also increase the risk of slips and falls, leading to possible injury.
Why it’s important:
- Items stored on sinks may come into contact with germs from the sink surface.
- Items left on sinks can be contaminated by bugs from splashes.
- Storing items on sinks can make it difficult for hospital staff to clean the area properly.
Poorly draining sink and shower drains
Proper drainage is crucial for maintaining cleanliness and preventing water build-up, which could lead to germs escaping from the drains. If you notice any problems with water drainage in your room or bathroom, please inform hospital staff immediately.
Signs of poor drainage:
- Slow-draining water in the sink or shower.
- Water pooling around the shower drain or sink drain after use.
- Overflowing or backed-up water.
Why it’s important:
Poor drainage can allow germs that are normally found down drains to escape into the environment, which can potentially cause infections. Please report any issues you notice to the staff immediately so they can take the necessary steps to resolve the situation.
Where to store your personal belongings
Storing personal items away from splash zones in important to keep you safe from germs. Please follow the below guidance to reduce the risk of infections.
- Keep personal items, including your toothbrush and toiletries, in the designated storage cupboard.
- Avoid leaving clothes, towels, or any personal belongings on the sink or within the surrounding splash zones.
Additional tips for maintaining water safety in the hospital
- Hand hygiene: Is very important at preventing the spread of infection. This is particularly important after using the toilet and before eating.
- Report any concerns: If you have any concerns about the cleanliness in your room or bathroom, inform the hospital staff immediately so that the necessary steps to resolve the situation can be taken.
We hope this information helps you understand how to stay safe and protected while using water facilities during your hospital stay. If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to ask your nurse or healthcare provider for more information.
Thank you for your cooperation in keeping our hospital environment safe and clean.