Guidance on infection control

The Department of Health has updated its Health and Social Care Act 2008: Code of practice on the prevention and control of infections and related guidance. The new version of the code states that effective prevention and control of infection must be part of everyday practice and be applied consistently by everyone working in a healthcare setting. It emphasises that good management and organisational processes are crucial to make sure that high standards of infection prevention (including cleanliness) are developed and maintained. While following the recommendations set out in the code is not a legal requirement, the CQC will use it to assess organisational standards.