In the United Kingdom, the British Institute of Cleaning Science is credited with developing a “universal” colour code for the cleaning industry in the late ‘90s. Its code supports that of the National Patient Safety Agency’s (NPSA) National Colour Coding Scheme for cleaning materials. NPSA has recommended that all National Health Service (NHS) organizations adopt the code as standard.
The aim of a product color coding scheme is to help prevent cross contamination during the cleaning process. It is vital that a system forms part of an employee training program and day-to-day working. The color coding of cleaning products is a simple but important step that will make a large contribution to hygiene standards and help with the elimination of cross infection.
Colour coding of cleaning materials and equipment ensures that these items are not used in multiple areas, therefore reducing the risk of cross-infection. The British Institute of Cleaning Science has developed a National Colour Coding Scheme for cleaning materials. The recommendation is that all cleaning organisations adopt this code as standard in order to improve the safety of cleaning, ensure consistency and provide clarity for staff. The National Colour Coding Scheme is designed to standardise, and in some cases streamline, existing schemes as follows : Cleaning materials and equipment that should be colour coded All cleaning materials and equipment, for example, cloths (re-usable and disposable), mops, buckets, aprons and gloves, should be colour coded. The method used to colour code items should be clear, permanent and in accordance with existing practice.
