National specifications for cleanliness in the NHS

This document sets out the national specifications for cleanliness in the NHS. These have been designed to provide a simple, easy-to-apply methodology within which hospitals in England can assess the effectiveness of their cleaning services.   The specifications apply chiefly to ‘traditional’ hospitals – whether in the acute, mental health or primary care trust communities – but their principles apply equally to other settings.   They describe a comparative framework within which hospitals and trusts in England can set out details for providing cleaning services and assessing ‘technical’ cleanliness.   They give clear advice and guidance on:   what is required; how trusts can demonstrate the way(s) in which cleaning services will meet these requirements; and how to assess performance.   Cleaning service managers and providers should read this document thoroughly and ensure that all staff are aware of its contents.   All those involved in the provision of hospital cleaning services should be working towards the common and shared goal of high quality cleaning services that meet the needs and expectations of patients, the public and other hospital staff.   The results of Patient Environment Action Team (PEAT) assessments are calculated against these specifications and the auditing process which accompanies them. The Revised Healthcare Cleaning Manual is designed to be used across different healthcare settings, including acute care, mental health care, primary care and the ambulance service. It can be found at http://www.nrls.npsa.nhs.uk/resources/type/guidance/?entryid45=61830