The Principles of Medical Device Decontamination

specified in HTM 00 and HTM 01-01 Part A. Even when responsibilities are outsourced, the AP(D) must always demonstrate a basic awareness of the site/ premises/systems they are accountable for and must attend site at routine frequencies. Competent Persons (Decontamination) A competent person, in accordance with HTM 00, is a someone that supplies skilled installation and/or maintenance of the specialist service. The CP(D) will be appointed, or authorised to work, by the appointed AP(D). They should be able to demonstrate a sound trade background, and specific skill in the specialist service. They will work under the direction of the AP(D), following the operating procedures, policies, and standards of the service. The CP(D) should be able to demonstrate that they have a minimum 12-months’ experience working on relevant decontamination equipment; this must include the theoretical background of sterilisers (porous load, laboratory, pharmaceutical, benchtops, VHP etc), washer-disinfectors (thermal, chemical), and controlled environment storage equipment etc. They should have completed a relevant apprenticeship, or equivalent training and have an understanding of microbiology, chemistry, and infection control principles, appropriate for the environment in which they are working. They require an understanding of the importance of water quality, aseptic water sampling techniques, and for steam sterilisers, the chemical purity of steam etc. They should have also completed a minimum NVQ level 3, City & Guilds, or BTEC qualification, or equivalent and have completed and passed accredited training courses for equipment they are responsible for. They should have routinely completed a competency logbook documenting a reflective work journal.

For more information on engineering personnel visit IHEEM website 6

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