Part D: Infection Prevention and Control

Part D – Infection Prevention and Control (Revision 8.0, April 2025) has been uploaded to the AusHFG website. The revised version has been informed by following a comprehensive review of infection prevention and control (IPC) literature and an extensive consultation process with IPC specialists, clinical, operational, and technical experts, as well as the Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care (ACSQHC) and the Australasian College for Infection Prevention and Control (ACIPC).

Key changes to the document include: 

• Introduction of IPC Principles which provide a new framework for the revised Part D document.
• Emphasis on risk assessment and management as major processes during planning, design and implementation to eliminate or minimise safety and security hazards related to IPC. An indicative risk management plan is included.
• Update to water system requirements to reduce water-based risks in healthcare facilities.
• Updated advice relating to hand hygiene facilities given to the use of alcohol-based hand rub (ABHR) as the preferred mode of hand hygiene in most clinical settings and increased knowledge relating to the risk of potential infection transmission from handwash basins (HWB).
• Revised recommendations relating to the optimal location of HWB in response to emerging research associated with splashing from the sink and drain outlets.
• Rationalisation of the recommended locations and types of hygiene facilities across common healthcare room types.
• Inclusion of a new HWB design section to assist project teams to choose and specify the correct type of basins for healthcare use, including consideration of drainage types.
• Updated recommendations for PPE dispenser locations to minimise cross-contamination risks from water splashes.
• Updated guidance regarding recommendations relating to single bedroom ratios with reference to the AusHFG Pandemic Preparedness Guidance and HPU 340 Adult Acute Inpatient Unit.
• Addition of Doors, Windows and Privacy Curtains, Surface Materials and Information Technology under the Surfaces and Finishes section given that these design elements are also potential sources of infection transmission.
• Inclusion of a window treatment comparison table to assist project teams regarding associated advantages and disadvantages.
• Inclusion of environmental, social and financial sustainability guidance in the context of IPC in healthcare facilities.
• Policy and reference updates to align with updated standards, policies, and reference materials.

A thank you is extended to all those who have contributed to the review and update of this document.

Kind Regards,

The AusHFG Team