Globally the healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) is increasingly becoming a burden for healthcare facilities with millions of patients affected each year. Contamination of the environment plays a key role in the transmission of some pathogens that cause healthcare-associated infection. In Oman, the healthcare sector is expanding rapidly and investing to comply with international standards and follow best practices. To protect patients, staff, and visitors, a standardized national cleaning program for healthcare facilities was developed in the Ministry of Health, Oman. 

Why a Cleaning Program Matters
Environmental cleaning is more than appearance—it is a core component of infection prevention and control (IPC) programs. Evidence shows that high-touch surfaces and contaminated environments contribute significantly to healthcare-associated infections (HAIs). For Oman, implementing effective cleaning programs ensures compliance with international standards while safeguarding patient safety.

Core Elements of the Program
A structured cleaning program includes:

• Administrative Support: Facility leadership holds ultimate responsibility for cleaning programs.
• Policies and Procedures: Development of policies, checklists, and job aids is vital for consistency.
• Infrastructure and Supplies: Adequate resources support effective environmental cleaning.
• Training and Education: Orientation and continuous education for cleaning staff should be provided across healthcare settings.
• Feedback Mechanism: Prompt feedback to staff and management supports immediate improvements.

Routine and Terminal Cleaning
Daily cleaning covers patient rooms, corridors, and public areas, with special attention to high-touch surfaces such as bed rails, switches, and doorknobs. Terminal cleaning, performed after patient discharge or during outbreaks, requires a two-step process: cleaning with soap and water, followed by disinfection of all environmental surfaces, furniture, and reusable equipment.

Monitoring and Compliance
Monitoring ensures accountability and effectiveness. Visual inspections, checklists, fluorescent markers, or ATP testing may be used to validate performance and guide improvement among cleaning teams.

Training and Staff Safety
People are the backbone of cleaning programs. Minimum training should include:

• Housekeeping course
• Personal hygiene
• Fire safety
• Environmental and occupational health
• IPC practices
• Facility policies and procedures in environmental cleaning

Product Evaluation
Claims for cleaning supplies must be validated through standardized, objective, and scientific evaluation. Considerations include cost-effectiveness, clinical efficacy, safety, environmental and occupational health impacts, and the potential to reduce HAIs.

Program Audits
Audits are essential to assess program effectiveness to identify gaps and areas for improvement.

A Step Toward Safer Healthcare in Oman
By aligning with global IPC standards while addressing local needs, Oman is well-positioned to build up its cleaning practices. A well-designed environmental program not only maintains hygiene but also reassures patients, empowers staff, and upholds institutional reputation.

Cleanliness in healthcare is not optional—it is the foundation of safe, high-quality care. For Oman and the wider Middle East, raising cleaning standards today means healthier communities in the future.

About the author: 

NOEL S. GONZAGA, BSMT, MPH, CIC 

Environmental Infection Control Senior Specialist, Certification for Infection Prevention and Control- CBIC, USA, Registered Medical Technologist- Philippines , Certified American Medical Technologist, Center for Disease Control and Prevention - CDC, Ministry of Health, Headquarters, Muscat, Oman