When determining humidity control requirements for operating theatres, engineers should consider both clinical issues and engineering criteria, a specialist in the field explains.
When determining humidity control requirements for operating theatres, engineers need to take account of clinical issues such as infection control as well as engineering criteria, explains John Barker, sales director at of specialist in humidification and dehumidification equipment, Humidity Solutions.
There is currently a perception by some in the healthcare sector that humidity control is no longer as necessary for operating theatres as it used to be. This is because, in the past, maintaining mid-range humidity was an effective way to prevent sparks in the presence of flammable gases (which are no longer used).
In fact, there is a strong relationship between infection control and maintaining acceptable relative humidity (RH) in operating theatres. This article will outline these relationships, and discuss the design considerations in the light of current regulations and best practice.
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