Infection Control Policy
Last Updated: 02/06/2026
1. Purpose
This policy outlines the procedures and standards implemented by Platinum Smiles Dental Laboratory to minimise the risk of cross-contamination and ensure a safe working environment for staff, clients, and patients. It reflects best practice in dental laboratory infection prevention and control.
2. Scope
This policy applies to all employees, contractors, and visitors who handle dental appliances, impressions, or materials within the laboratory.
3. Responsibilities
- All staff are responsible for adhering to this policy at all times.
- The Laboratory Manager is responsible for ensuring compliance, training, and regular policy review.
- All personnel must report any breaches of infection control procedures immediately.
4. Standard Infection Control Precautions
All incoming and outgoing items must be treated as potentially infectious.
4.1 Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Staff must wear appropriate PPE when handling dental items, including:
- Disposable gloves
- Face masks or shields
- Protective eyewear
- Laboratory coats or uniforms
PPE must be changed between cases and disposed of appropriately.
4.2 Hand Hygiene
- Hands must be washed with soap and water or sanitised before and after each case.
- Hand hygiene must be performed after removing gloves and before leaving clinical work areas.
5. Decontamination Procedures
5.1 Incoming Work
- All impressions, appliances, and prosthetics must be assumed contaminated.
- Items must be disinfected upon receipt using an approved disinfectant in accordance with manufacturer guidelines.
- Items visibly contaminated with blood or bodily fluids must be handled with extra caution and thoroughly decontaminated.
5.2 Work in Progress
- Separate clean and contaminated zones must be maintained.
- Work surfaces must be disinfected regularly and between cases.
- Equipment must be cleaned and disinfected after each use where applicable.
5.3 Outgoing Work
- All completed appliances must be cleaned and disinfected prior to dispatch.
- Items will be sprayed with a disinfectant solution; the dental practice must ensure these items are properly sterilised upon receipt.
6. Waste Management
- Clinical and hazardous waste must be disposed of in accordance with local regulations.
- Sharps must be disposed of in approved sharps containers.
- Waste must be segregated and handled by licensed waste disposal services where required.
7. Equipment and Environment
- All laboratory equipment must be regularly maintained and cleaned according to manufacturer instructions.
- Work areas must be kept clean, organised, and free from contamination risks.
- Adequate ventilation must be maintained throughout the laboratory.
8. Training
- All staff must receive infection control training upon induction and at regular intervals thereafter.
- Training records must be maintained and updated.
9. Immunisation and Health
- Staff are encouraged to be appropriately immunised (e.g., Hepatitis B).
- Any staff member with a communicable illness must report this and may be required to refrain from work until safe to return.
10. Incident Reporting
Any incidents involving exposure to potentially infectious material must be reported immediately. Appropriate action, including medical advice and documentation, must be taken.
11. Monitoring and Review
- Compliance with this policy will be monitored regularly.
- This policy will be reviewed annually or in line with updated guidance or legislation.
12. Compliance
This policy aligns with current UK infection control guidance and relevant health and safety legislation applicable to dental laboratories.
13. Contact Information
Platinum Smiles Dental Laboratory: 59 Loughborough Road, West Bridgford, Nottingham, NG2 7LA
Phone: 07955218000
Email: pbarrett@platinumsmiles.co.uk