Healthcare Conference: Hygienically Clean Update

On Wednesday, Nov. 13, Certification Auditor Manager TJ Peterson and Auditor Dan Sanchez provided an update on the Hygienically Clean Healthcare Certification at the TRSA Healthcare Conference in Atlanta. Joined by TRSA’s Senior Director of Certification and Accreditation, Samlane Ketevong, they shared valuable insights into new program processes and procedures.

Key Updates

1. New Quality Assurance Manual Review Process
   Facilities can now submit Quality Assurance (QA) manuals electronically, at least 30 days before their scheduled audit. This pre-review process allows auditors to conduct a more thorough assessment of the QA manual ahead of the in-person audit. As a result, the in-person audit includes deeper discussions and more time focused on the facility floor.
2. Enhanced Auditor Training Process
   In March 2024, TRSA assumed direct management of the audit program from Laundry Design Group. A new certification auditor manager and six auditors were onboarded and trained to conduct program audits. Auditors participate in annual, in-depth training to ensure expertise, consistency and adherence to best-management practices (BMPs). They are vetted for impartiality and required to sign confidentiality agreements to protect sensitive facility information.
3. Investment in Technology
   The program’s most significant technology investment in 2024 included a revised electronic audit process, an enhanced reporting system and an upgraded certification portal.
4. Reinvestment in Promoting Reusable Textiles and Certification
   TRSA reinvested $500,000 to expand the adoption of Hygienically Clean Healthcare Certification in healthcare facility RFPs. This initiative focuses on creating a targeted communications plan with tailored messages and outreach strategies to engage key audiences effectively.

The session concluded with a robust question-and-answer session, where members had the opportunity to ask the auditors questions about the certification process.