Guidance

Examining food, water and environmental samples: healthcare settings

Guidelines on sampling and result interpretation for microbiologists and infection control nurses working in healthcare environments.

• From: Public Health England
• Published: 27 June 2013
• Last updated: 17 February 2020 — See all updates

Documents

Examining food, water and environmental samples from healthcare environments: microbiological guidelines

Ref: PHE publications gateway number GW-1083

PDF, 685 KB, 47 pages

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Details

The microbiological examination of food, water and environmental samples from the healthcare environment is necessary for routine monitoring of decontamination procedures and the demonstration of a safe environment for patients, visitors and staff.

This document provides:

• a summary of legislation and guidance for microbiologists and infection control nurses working within healthcare settings
• additional guidance on sampling and result interpretation

General procedures for collecting food, water, air and environmental samples are also described.

Published 27 June 2013
Last updated 17 February 2020 + show all updates

1. 17 February 2020

   Updated 'microbiological guidelines' document.

2. 27 June 2013

   First published.