ICRA 2.0 – Controlling the Spread of HAIs During Construction in Critical Healthcare Environments

Each year, thousands of patients fall victim to healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) caused by dust and other airborne contaminants released during construction activities. To support patient safety, the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has created requirements for healthcare facilities to perform an Infection Control Risk Assessment (ICRA) before any renovation, construction, or maintenance project begins. 

The ICRA 2.0 matrix includes the steps for assessing the impact of construction activities in the surrounding areas. It takes into account dust, ventilation, pressurization, noise, vibrations, and other potentially harmful factors. The matrix lays out the inspection and management of the environmental conditions categorizing activities by project type – from Class I for low risk groups to Class V for maintenance and construction activities in high risk groups. Because Class V is the highest risk group for procedural, invasive, sterile support, and highly compromised patient care areas, it has more strict requirements when it comes to infection control.

ICRA Class V: Critical Environments

When performing Class V projects, a containment barrier is always needed to meet National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 241 requirements. Containment barriers are designed to separate construction areas from patient occupied spaces. These barriers also enable contractors to put the site under negative pressure, which is another ICRA requirement. Once the contained area is under negative pressure, there should be a visual pressure indicator and the air must be HEPA filtered or discharged directly outside.

In addition, it’s important for contractors to use an anteroom that is large enough for equipment staging, cart cleaning, and workers to clean and change before entering occupied spaces.

Selecting an ICRA-Compliant Solutions Provider 

Because of the sensitive nature of critical care environments, it's crucial to find a reputable solutions provider with a team of experts that are knowledgeable on ICRA 2.0 requirements. At Abatement Technologies, our selection of HEPA filtration equipment, portable containment solutions, temporary barrier walls, and pressure monitoring equipment make us the perfect one-stop-shop for all construction needs. And, with our knowledgeable team of Aire Guardians working around the clock, we’re equipped to find a solution that’s right for each project and budget.

Let us help you with your containment needs!  Contact us today to learn more about our products and expertise.