EC 54 - Developing a Robust Leak Response Program

Background: Aging infrastructure within a 100-year-old acute care hospital presents challenges that can often lead to an increase in leaks identified throughout the hospital in both clinical and non-clinical areas that increases the possibility of mold or other waterborne pathogens. In June 2021, the facility was tested even greater when a state of emergency was declared for following a rainstorm which overloaded the area's wastewater systems and further caused significant water damage to the Detroit-based hospital. An improved process was needed to identify and to reduce the occurrence of leaks throughout the hospital.

Methods: After the 2021 flooding, the Infection Prevention team, in collaboration with hospital and Facility leadership, developed a leak response document that outlined the immediate expectations for the staff members who identify leaks, the Facility staff expectations, and how to properly report leaks and floods. In addition, a need was identified to better assess the flooring products used and develop a flooring recommendation document that identified the best flooring products that should be installed in areas that have a higher risk of leaks/flooding. Additionally, the Infection Prevention department invested in a moisture reader for room signoffs after leaks.

Results: The leak response process and document were presented to all areas/departments throughout the facility. Additionally, the flooring product document was shared with facility design teams, who are now more integrated with Infection Prevention to work on which flooring products to select. Lastly, a process has been developed for room signoff after a known water intrusion.

Conclusions: The detailed leak response process outlined and implemented has been improved response time in identifying and reporting leaks throughout the facility. The process in how to properly design and sign-off rooms has reduced the risk of mold growth and has improved room remediation time after a water intrusion event