Ensuring impeccable hygiene in aged care facilities is not just a matter of routine cleaning—it’s a critical
component of maintaining the health and safety of elderly residents. With the elderly population being
more vulnerable to infections, especially in communal living settings, it is vital to adhere to stringent
hygiene standards and pass regular health inspections as mandated by Victorian regulations.
In this guide, we’ll explore the best practices to maintain hygiene in aged care facilities and how to
ensure compliance with Victorian health regulations.
- Understand the Victorian Aged Care Health Standards
In Victoria, aged care facilities must comply with the Aged Care Quality Standards, which outline key
requirements for health, safety, and hygiene. Under these standards, providers are expected to:
- Ensure that residents live in a clean, comfortable, and well-maintained environment.
- Implement effective infection control protocols.
- Adhere to food safety regulations for meal preparation and service.
- Maintain proper waste management and sanitation procedures.
Facilities are regularly audited by the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission to ensure compliance,
and poor hygiene practices can lead to fines, penalties, or even loss of accreditation. Knowing and
adhering to these standards is the first step to passing inspections.
- Develop a Comprehensive Hygiene Plan
A well-organized hygiene plan is essential for aged care facilities. This plan should cover all aspects of
cleaning, disinfection, and sanitation within the facility, including:
- Daily cleaning protocols for common areas, resident rooms, bathrooms, and dining areas.
- High-touch surface disinfection, including door handles, handrails, light switches, and communal
furniture. - Regular deep cleaning schedules for floors, walls, windows, and upholstery.
- Laundry hygiene, including sanitizing bedding, towels, and clothing to prevent cross-contamination.
Make sure to document your cleaning schedules and protocols clearly. During health inspections, having
a written hygiene plan shows that you are proactive about cleanliness and infection control.
- Train Your Staff in Infection Control
Properly trained staff are essential for maintaining high hygiene standards. Victorian regulations require
aged care staff to be trained in infection control and hygiene management, including:
- Proper hand hygiene: Regular and thorough handwashing or use of alcohol-based hand sanitizers to
prevent the spread of infections. - Correct use of personal protective equipment (PPE): Gloves, masks, and gowns must be used when
necessary, particularly during outbreaks or when dealing with ill residents. - Cleaning protocols: Staff should know how to properly clean and disinfect surfaces, handle waste, and
manage laundry to avoid contamination.
Providing regular refresher courses ensures that staff stay updated with best practices and any changes
in Victorian health regulations.
- Maintain a Strong Infection Control Policy
In aged care, infection control is critical, especially during outbreaks of diseases such as influenza,
gastroenteritis, or COVID-19. Victorian regulations require aged care facilities to have strict infection
control policies in place, which should include:
- Isolation procedures for infected residents to prevent the spread of contagious illnesses.
- Use of disinfectants and cleaning agents approved for aged care and healthcare settings.
- Regular health screenings for staff and visitors to ensure no one with symptoms enters the facility.
- Vaccination policies, particularly for the flu and other communicable diseases, to protect both residents
and staff.
Infection control policies should be regularly reviewed and updated according to Victorian Department of
Health guidelines, especially during outbreaks or new health risks.
- Ensure Food Safety Compliance
One of the key areas that health inspectors will review is food safety, as improperly handled food can
lead to foodborne illnesses among elderly residents. To ensure compliance with Victorian regulations,
aged care facilities must:
- Adhere to the Food Safety Act 1984 and ensure all kitchen staff have undergone food safety training.
- Store, prepare, and serve food at appropriate temperatures.
- Prevent cross-contamination between raw and cooked foods.
- Regularly sanitize kitchen surfaces, utensils, and appliances.
Maintain proper records of food storage temperatures, cooking procedures, and cleaning schedules, as
inspectors will review these to ensure compliance.
- Waste Management and Sanitation
Proper waste disposal is essential to prevent the spread of infections in aged care facilities. Victorian
regulations require facilities to:
- Use separate bins for general waste, medical waste, and recyclables.
- Regularly empty and disinfect waste bins to prevent the build-up of harmful bacteria.
- Follow proper biohazard disposal protocols for medical waste, including sharps, bodily fluids, and
contaminated materials.
Keeping sanitation areas clean and free of waste is crucial for passing health inspections and
maintaining a safe environment.
- Prepare for Health Inspections
Aged care facilities in Victoria undergo regular inspections to ensure compliance with health and safety
standards. Preparing for these inspections involves:
- Conducting internal audits: Regularly assess your facility’s hygiene practices, infection control
measures, and cleanliness. - Maintaining accurate documentation: Keep records of cleaning schedules, staff training, food safety
logs, and maintenance checks. - Addressing any issues immediately: If an inspector identifies an area that needs improvement, take
prompt action to resolve it and document the steps you’ve taken.
Facilities that are well-prepared and maintain good documentation are more likely to pass inspections
with ease.
- Leverage Professional Cleaning Services
One way to ensure consistent, high-quality cleaning in your facility is to engage a professional cleaning
service that specializes in aged care hygiene. At Keen and Hygiene, we understand the unique needs of
aged care facilities and offer comprehensive cleaning solutions, including:
- Infection control cleaning
- High-touch surface disinfection
- Regular and deep cleaning services tailored to your facility’s requirements
Partnering with a professional service ensures that your facility is always in compliance with Victorian
health regulations and ready for inspections.
Conclusion
Maintaining a clean and hygienic environment in an aged care facility is a critical responsibility. By
adhering to Victorian regulations, implementing robust hygiene protocols, and preparing thoroughly for
health inspections, you can ensure a safe, comfortable environment for your residents and staff.
Need help with hygiene and cleaning services? Contact Keen and Hygiene today for professional
cleaning solutions that meet the highest standards.
