Features

Safer Practices Part 6: Why staff must be vigilant in their own hygiene practices

How can staff limit the spread of infection through good personal hygiene practices? By Nicole Weinstein

Measures to control the spread of infection have become second nature to many settings since the onset of Covid. While handwashing has always played an important role in preventing the spread of tummy bugs and respiratory infections, the pandemic highlighted the need to do it properly. However, the cost of personal protective equipment (PPE) and the need for it to be single use has been a challenge for some settings, particularly those who want to reduce their carbon footprint.

Melanie Pilcher, quality and standards manager at the Early Years Alliance, says the hygiene measures that ‘should always have been in place’ prior to Covid are ‘generally well embedded’ in settings. However, she adds, ‘Practitioners are certainly more aware of the need for good infection control, and not just with regards to minimising the spread of Covid.’

Register now to continue reading

Thank you for visiting Nursery World and making use of our archive of more than 35,000 expert features, subject guides, case studies and policy updates. Why not register today and enjoy the following great benefits:

What's included

  • Free access to 4 subscriber-only articles per month

  • Unlimited access to news and opinion

  • Email newsletter providing activity ideas, best practice and breaking news

Register

Already have an account? Sign in here