The physical act of soil removal also removes organisms. The efficiency with which soil and microbes are removed from common healthcare environment surfaces have been studied utilising microbiological measures to investigate the efficacy of novel technology based on the application of controlled superheated dry steam vapour by five purpose-designed steam delivery tools.

The 12 month study assessed disinfection efficacy of eleven challenge micro-organisms associated with HCAIs including MRSA, Clostridium difficile spores and Acinetobacter calcoaceticus-baumannii (ACCB).

Decontamination tests challenged ten representative ‘risk’ surfaces in the patient environment performed by microbiological measures (plastic laminates & mouldings, bed frames, ceramic tile, stainless steel, vinyl, painted surfaces etc).

The study considered the context of how the tools would be practically used, assessing patient and user safety, ergonomics and productivity.
This evaluation extends to validation of a standard operating procedure (tool selection, technique) and training tools.

The study was undertaken in two parts.
• TNO Controlled Clean room laboratory conditions to evaluate the potential for formation and intensity of aerosol and dispersion.

• UCLH Decommissioned ward environment populated as a four bed bay with furnishings and equipment. Surfaces were purposely contaminated, then cleaned by trained domestic staff (blinded to contamination sites).
Microbiological measures were taken for both aerosolisation and surface decontamination using pre and post cleaning measures and appropriate controls.

From the results we conclude that with correct tool selection and application method no aerosol hazard is expected from use within the hospital environment.

The final test results produced Pass ratings in the surface challenge tests, equal to or better that standard chemical disinfection practices. The dry steam vapour method of surface cleaning and decontamination demonstrated pass results without the risk to health or environmental damage or impact on microbiological sensitivity or resistance associated with inappropriate antimicrobial use.

We conclude that with correctly delivered staff training dry steam vapour and microfibre cleaning technology delivers cleaner hospital environments without the use of ecologically damaging biocides.

We will describe steam cleaning performance and the steps for successful implementation, and integration within Infection Prevention & Control domestic cleaning guidance in the protection of the patient environment, as is now being undertaken in NHS Hospitals in the United Kingdom.