Program Overview

The IRIS Healthcare Air Quality Seal of Recognition™ program aims to improve healthcare air quality for both patients and healthcare teams by educating and engaging healthcare personnel on the impact of air contamination and air quality on human health. The program, powered by Aerobiotix, demonstrates seven measurable improvements in healthcare air quality that drive improved environmental conditions for the delivery of care.

Program Goals

  1. Improve Healthcare Air Quality: Enhance air quality to ensure a safer environment for patients and healthcare teams.
  2. Education and Engagement: Inform healthcare personnel about the significance of air quality and its effects on health.
  3. Measurable Improvements: Achieve and demonstrate seven key improvements in healthcare air quality.

Key Experts

Dr. Julio Ramirez, MD

Dr. Ruth Carrico, PhD, DNP

Dr. Hudson Garrett, PhD.

Incorporation of Best Practices

The program incorporates best practices from the following organizations:

  • Association of periOperative Registered Nurses (AORN)
  • Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)
  • American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE)
  • Facility Guidelines Institute (FGI)

Program Process

1. Online Pre-Assessment

  • Execution of a business associate agreement.
  • Collection and secure uploading of facility information to establish a baseline for current air quality and identify improvement opportunities.
  • Feedback on current policies and procedures from Board-Certified Infection Preventionists to advance evidence-based practices in healthcare air quality.

2. On-Site Audit

  • Conducted by a credentialed Aerobiotix professional using established standards from the peer-reviewed literature and professional guidelines.
  • Builds on the online pre-assessment and includes a thorough on-site audit.
  • The entire process is designed to be completed in less than four hours for most facilities.
  • A written report is provided to participating facilities for continuous quality improvement.
  • The Seal of Recognition must be renewed annually.

Program Benefits

  • Access to best practices, including policies, procedures, statements of authority, work plans, and checklists.
  • Continuous improvement of air quality to ensure the safety and health of both patients and healthcare staff.
  • Recognition with the official IRIS Healthcare Air Quality Seal of Recognition™ from the International Respiratory Infections Society upon meeting all program requirements.

The IRIS Healthcare Air Quality Seal of Recognition™ program is a vital initiative to enhance air quality in healthcare settings, ensuring a safer and healthier environment for all. By adhering to industry best practices and leveraging expert guidance, healthcare facilities can achieve significant improvements in air quality and overall patient care. Learn more about this innovative new program.