Infection & WASH Readiness

17 items · Health · Medium difficulty · 30 min

Quick steps to prepare for infection prevention and safe WASH in health emergencies.

• Verify emergency IPC and WASH plan is accessible

  Ensure the plan lists roles, escalation steps, and key contacts.

• Confirm designated isolation areas and routes

  Identify rooms, entrances and patient flow for suspected cases.

• Train staff on core IPC and WASH procedures

  Cover hand hygiene, PPE use, waste handling, and water safety.

• Set up hand hygiene stations near care and entry points

  Place stations at reception, triage, and patient care areas.

• Stock stations with alcohol-based hand rub

  Use rubs with at least 60% alcohol where soap isn't available.

• Provide soap and single-use towels at sinks

  Ensure liquid soap and disposable towels or air dryers.

• Inspect water supply and storage systems

  Check source, storage tanks, pumps and delivery points.

• Test water for contamination or turbidity

  Perform basic tests or request lab verification if available.

• Ensure functioning sanitation facilities are available

  Provide clean toilets, separate staff/patient where possible.

• Arrange proper waste segregation and safe disposal

  Separate sharps, infectious and general waste per standard colors.

• Run a short response drill to test readiness

  Simulate a suspected case and review response times.

• Stock essential PPE and check minimum inventory

  Confirm masks, gloves, gowns and eye protection levels.

• Set up cleaning and disinfection schedules for high-touch areas

  List tasks, frequency, and responsible staff members.

• Put up clear IPC and WASH signage and instructions

  Display handwashing steps and PPE guidance in visible spots.

• Establish a simple hand hygiene monitoring routine

  Assign observers and feedback loops for improvement.

• Confirm communication lines for reporting and support

  List hotlines, facility leads and external partners.

• Review and update supplier and laboratory contact list

  Include water, sanitation, PPE and testing contacts.

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