What are Engineering Controls?
Engineering controls refer to strategies designed to isolate people from hazards, particularly in the context of
infectious diseases. These controls aim to reduce the risk of exposure by removing hazardous conditions or by placing a barrier between the worker and the hazard. They are considered one of the most effective means to protect individuals, second only to eliminating the hazard entirely.
Examples of Engineering Controls in Infectious Diseases
Several engineering controls are commonly employed to minimize the risk of infection transmission. These include:
Ventilation Systems: Effective
ventilation systems help maintain air quality by diluting and removing airborne pathogens. This is particularly crucial in healthcare settings where airborne diseases like
tuberculosis may be present.
Physical Barriers: The use of physical barriers such as plexiglass screens can prevent droplet transmission, making them a staple in environments such as clinics and retail spaces.
Negative Pressure Rooms: These specialized rooms are used in hospitals to prevent cross-contamination by ensuring that air flows into the room, but not out, thereby containing infectious agents.
Ultraviolet Germicidal Irradiation (UVGI): UVGI uses
ultraviolet light to inactivate microorganisms, providing an additional layer of protection in areas prone to high traffic of infectious agents.
How Do Engineering Controls Differ from Other Preventative Measures?
Engineering controls are distinct from administrative controls and personal protective equipment (PPE). While administrative controls involve changes in work policies and procedures to reduce risk, and PPE involves the use of protective gear, engineering controls focus on making changes to the environment itself. This environmental modification makes them highly effective as they do not rely on human behavior to be successful.
Why Are Engineering Controls Important in Healthcare Settings?
In healthcare settings, engineering controls are vital for the protection of both healthcare workers and patients. They help in reducing the spread of
hospital-acquired infections (HAIs) which can lead to significant morbidity and mortality. For instance, proper ventilation and the use of isolation rooms are crucial in controlling the spread of
airborne pathogens in hospitals.
Challenges in Implementing Engineering Controls
Despite their effectiveness, there are challenges associated with the implementation of engineering controls. These include:
Cost: The initial investment required for installation and maintenance of engineering controls like advanced ventilation systems can be significant.
Space Constraints: In some facilities, space may be limited for the installation of physical barriers or negative pressure rooms.
Technical Expertise: The design and implementation of effective engineering controls often require specialized knowledge and expertise.
Future of Engineering Controls in Infectious Disease Management
The future of engineering controls in infectious disease management is promising, with advances in technology offering new solutions. Smart ventilation systems, improved UVGI technology, and innovative materials for physical barriers are on the horizon. As the threat of infectious diseases evolves, so too will the strategies to combat them, ensuring that engineering controls remain a cornerstone of
infection prevention.
