Public Health does not routinely inspect places where regulated health professionals (RHP) operate such as walk-in clinics, chiropractor or dental offices unless an infection control complaint is received. If an infection control complaint is received, Public Health will initiate an investigation within 24 hours to determine if there is a risk of an infection prevention and control (IPAC) lapse to the public.

What is an IPAC lapse?

…failure to follow IPAC practices resulting in a risk of transmission of infectious diseases to clients, attendees or staff through exposure to blood, body fluids, secretions, excretions, mucous membranes, non-intact skin, or contaminated equipment and soiled items.”

IPAC lapse definition, Ontario Ministry of Health

If an IPAC lapse is identified

The Ministry of Health mandates that if an IPAC lapse is identified, Public Health will ensure corrective action is taken and disclose the lapse on our website. To see the full investigation report for any posted complaint, call 1-800-265-7293 ext. 4752. In the event of an IPAC lapse, Public Health is required to notify the RHPs regulatory college of the complaint inspection findings.

Resources

It is recommended that all RHPs and their staff are aware of current IPAC Best Practice guidelines and adhere to them when providing service to the public. Current PIDAC Best Practice documents and many free training opportunities are available on Public Health Ontario’s website:

• WDG Public Health | Cleaned, Wrapped and Loaded - A Review of Equipment Reprocessing Workshop (free)
• Medical Device Reprocessing Association of Ontario (MDRAO) | Medical Device Reprocessing Techniques Online Course (for fee)
• Public Health Ontario | Reprocessing in Community Health Care Settings (free online modules)
• Public Health Ontario | Environmental Cleaning (free online modules)
• CSA Standard Z314:23 | Canadian medical device reprocessing in all health care settings (for fee)
• PIDAC Best Practice Documents:
  • Infection Prevention and Control for Clinical Office Practice
  • Cleaning, Disinfection and Sterilization of Medical Equipment and Devices
  • Environmental Cleaning for Prevention and Control of Infections
  • Routine Practices and Additional Precautions: Annexes A, B and C
  • Best Practices for Hand Hygiene
• Public Health Ontario | IPAC Checklists (use to self audit your practice)