Air Sampling & Air Testing

Following National Guidelines from HTM 03/01 and the Hospital Infection Society, air sampling can be carried out as part of routine commissioning for new build Theatres or following any major refurbishment works within Theatres. Likewise, if an HAI (Healthcare-associated infection) needs further investigation.

Settle plates

Settle plates can be used for this process but tend to be time consuming (between 1 and 4 hours exposure time). Increasingly we utilise a sieve impaction electronic process (5 minutes per sample).

Samples, whether by settle plate or sieve impaction process, are incubated in our University based Laboratory, with results usually available within 48/72 hours.

Providing the results fall within the recommended parameters for CFUs (Colony Forming Units) per cubic metre of air sampled, our Certificate of Air Quality can be issued. A useful tool in the event of any CQC audit.