Neftaly Water Sanitation in Healthcare Facilities
Introduction
Water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) are fundamental to delivering safe, quality healthcare. Inadequate water sanitation in healthcare facilities (HCFs) increases the risk of healthcare-associated infections (HAIs), compromises patient outcomes, and endangers staff health. Neftaly’s Water Sanitation in Healthcare Facilities Program provides clear guidelines for establishing and maintaining clean, safe water systems as part of essential infection prevention and control (IPC).
Objectives
- To ensure safe and sufficient water supply in all healthcare settings.
- To prevent waterborne disease transmission within facilities.
- To establish standards for water storage, distribution, and usage.
- To support sustainable infrastructure and hygiene practices.
- To protect patients, healthcare workers, and visitors from water-related health risks.
1. Importance of Water Sanitation in HCFs
- Essential for hand hygiene, cleaning, disinfection, medical procedures, and waste disposal.
- Critical to preventing infections, particularly in vulnerable populations (e.g., surgical patients, newborns, immunocompromised individuals).
- Supports dignity and comfort for patients and staff.
2. Key Components of Safe Water Sanitation in HCFs
A. Water Supply
- Reliable and continuous access to a safe water source (e.g., piped supply, boreholes, rainwater collection).
- Water must meet national or WHO quality standards for potable use.
- Adequate quantity: Minimum of 5–100 liters per person per day, depending on service level and procedures performed.
B. Water Storage and Distribution
- Use of clean, covered, and labeled storage tanks.
- Regular inspection and cleaning of storage containers.
- Proper piping and plumbing maintenance to avoid contamination.
- Clear separation of drinking water from utility and process water.
C. Water Treatment and Monitoring
- Filtration, chlorination, or UV treatment to ensure microbial safety.
- Routine water quality testing (e.g., E. coli, chlorine residuals, turbidity).
- Immediate action protocols in case of contamination.
3. Sanitation and Wastewater Management
- Proper disposal of greywater and blackwater to prevent cross-contamination.
- Functional toilets/latrines for all staff, patients, and visitors.
- Separate sanitation facilities for men and women, with accommodations for those with disabilities.
- Systems in place to prevent backflow and leaks.
4. Hygiene and Infection Control Integration
- Hand hygiene stations (with soap and running water or alcohol-based rub) at all points of care and latrines.
- Cleaning protocols using treated water for surfaces, instruments, and laundry.
- IPC committees to oversee water sanitation standards and compliance.
5. Emergency Preparedness
- Backup water supply (e.g., stored water, generators for pumps).
- Emergency response plan for water outages or contamination.
- Staff training on safe water handling during crises.
6. Roles and Responsibilities
| Role | Responsibilities |
|---|---|
| Facility Managers | Oversee infrastructure and maintenance |
| Infection Control Teams | Monitor water quality and hygiene compliance |
| Staff and Caregivers | Use water responsibly and report issues |
| Governments and Partners | Provide funding, policies, and technical support |
7. Monitoring and Evaluation
- Use WASH FIT (Water and Sanitation for Health Facility Improvement Tool) or equivalent frameworks.
- Regular audits and facility assessments.
- Feedback mechanisms for staff and patients.
- Integration of water sanitation indicators into facility performance reviews.
Conclusion
Safe water and sanitation are non-negotiable pillars of quality healthcare. Neftaly’s Water Sanitation in Healthcare Facilities Program supports resilient, hygienic, and patient-safe environments, especially in resource-limited or high-risk settings.