Blog

Barry Hunt, a co-founder of the CHAIR Coalition and a respected board member, has long been a significant influence in molding patient-centered healthcare standards. His expansive experience and deep-rooted expertise have made him an authoritative voice in the field. His most recent contributions to a myriad of healthcare standards have strongly emphasized the urgent need to create safer and more efficient healthcare environments. This is essential, particularly in the ongoing battle against the spread of airborne diseases.

In the development of the Z8004 standard, a guideline that specifically deals with the operation of long-term care homes and the prevention of infections, Hunt has offered a wealth of insightful suggestions. He insists on the absolute necessity for readily available respirators for all staff, residents, and visitors in long-term care facilities. In addition, he is a strong advocate for the implementation of superior ventilation strategies. These include increasing the air change per hour rate and the use of portable HEPA filters or Upper Air UV systems to enhance air quality and safety.

The Z317.2 standard, which is primarily focused on the operation of heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning (HVAC) systems, has also benefited from Hunt's critical input. His proposals significantly underscore the need for the development of more effective HVAC systems in order to reduce the transmission of pathogens significantly. He recommends a maximum noise level of 45 dB for portable air cleaners and places emphasis on the involvement of experts in bioaerosol science and infection prevention during the early design stages. Furthermore, he highlights the need for maintaining a minimum of 40% relative humidity in patient care areas as a measure to reduce healthcare-acquired infections.

In terms of the comprehensive Z8000 Canadian Healthcare Facilities standard, Hunt's suggestions span a broad spectrum. These include key areas such as infection prevention, patient control of the environment, and the integration of automated disinfection technologies. He robustly advocates for the inclusion of engineered infection prevention measures in the initial project development plans. He also recognizes the need for the adoption of automated disinfection technologies. These include automated UVC disinfection in bathrooms, copper self-sanitizing high-touch surfaces, and self-sanitizing ROS sinks which can significantly enhance hygiene and safety.

Taking a forward-thinking and future-oriented view, Hunt discusses the likely increase in infectious diseases due to the impact of climate change. He also mentions the potential rise in hospital utilization as a consequence of the long-term effects of Covid-19, and the impending labor shortages in the healthcare sector. His proposals strongly underscore the need for progressive, forward-thinking, and innovative approaches in the design and operation of healthcare facilities.

In conclusion, Barry Hunt's significant contributions to healthcare standards provide a clear vision for the future. A future where safer and more efficient healthcare environments are created that cater effectively to evolving needs and emerging challenges. His work is a resounding call to action for all those involved in healthcare design and operation to earnestly consider these significant advancements and insights.

If you'd like to dive deeper into Barry's comments and proposaled changes, we invite you to review them in detail here.