title: Dirty ducting poses significant risks.
abstract: Richard Norman, managing director of ventilation system cleaning specialist Indepth Hygiene, discusses the importance of ensuring that such systems are properly cleaned in healthcare facilities, especially, he argues, as dust and debris on internal surfaces of ducting are potentially "ideal nutrients" for the growth of microorganisms such as MRSA and Clostridium difficile. In addition he warns that, if not properly and regularly cleaned, grease extract ventilation systems linked to catering facilities are a potential source of danger to hospital patients, staff, and visitors alike.
authors.forename: Richard
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Norman
mesh_terms: D003246:Conservation of Energy Resources; D006779:Hospitals, Public; D008284:Maintenance and Engineering, Hospital; D018570:Risk Assessment; D006113:United Kingdom; D014691:Ventilation / Q000592:standards*