POU filters provide a physical barrier to the release of harmful opportunistic waterborne pathogens, which is crucial in infection prevention in healthcare settings. Filters are, therefore, relied upon as a critical control measure to protect the most vulnerable end users, who may be immunocompromised and susceptible to infection.
Unauthorised removal of POU filters can increase the risk of infection from waterborne pathogens by enabling the uncontrolled release of contaminated water into the environment. Patients and staff may be exposed directly to microorganisms such as Legionella pneumophila and nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) present in contaminated water systems. Other bacteria that can survive in the environment, such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa, can also result in cross-contamination of surrounding surfaces.
Therefore, the risk of infection from waterborne pathogens can be of concern to water safety groups, who have specifically installed filters as a critical control measure owing to known contamination of the hospital water system. This can be of more significant concern in areas where immunocompromised and neutropenic patients are present, where any lapse in control could have catastrophic outcomes.
Many filters are designed to enable ease of installation and facilitate rapid deployment during water safety emergencies. Typically, this involves the use of a threaded adapter that is screwed into the tap outlet, with a push fit connection for the filter which allows for quick and easy installation and exchange. This simplifies the process and reduces labor time for busy estates teams, however this in turn leaves filters open to misuse by end users as they can be easily removed.
Filters may be removed by unsuspecting end users including visitors, patients and staff mainly due to a lack of awareness of their purpose and importance as a water safety control measure. They may also be removed if flow from the filter has been significantly reduced rendering them unusable for hand washing or showering, typically caused by low water pressure or clogging.
The unauthorised removal of filters increases the risk of infection via three key pathways;
The end user is directly exposed to contaminated water from the tap outlet during hand washing or the shower hose during bathing.
Sanitary fittings and surrounding areas, such as medicines and medical devices, are exposed to contamination caused by aerosols and splashing from the outlet.
If the removed filter is left sitting in the hand wash basin or shower tray, it is exposed to contamination, which will compromise patient safety if the filter is refitted and reused.
Our latest innovation in water safety security provides a robust and reliable solution for preventing the unauthorised removal of tap and shower filters. The unique design of the T-safe anti-tamper tap adapter and shower hose restricts the removal and refitting of filters to authorised persons only. This ingenious solution helps safeguard patient safety by preventing the uncontrolled release of contaminated water where filters are installed.
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Note: This product is intended solely for use in conjunction with T-safe shower and tap filters and is not compatible with other brands.
