- (1) Each facility shall have provisions for storage and processing of clean and soiled linen as required for patient care.
- (2) Processing may be done within the facility, in a separate building or in a commercial or shared laundry.
- (3) Each facility shall develop and implement policies and procedures relevant to operation of the laundry.
(4) Clean linen shall be stored, handled, and transported in a manner to prevent contamination.
- (a) Clean linen shall be stored in clean ventilated closets, rooms, or alcoves used only for that purpose.
- (b) Clean linen shall be covered if stored in alcoves and transported through the facility.
- (c) Clean linen from a commercial laundry shall be delivered to a designated clean area in a manner that prevents contamination.
- (d) Linens shall be maintained in good condition.
- (e) A supply of clean washcloths and towels shall be provided and available to staff to meet the care needs of patients.
(5) Soiled linen shall be handled, stored and processed in a manner that will prevent the spread of infections.
- (a) Soiled linen shall be sorted in a separate room by methods affording protection from contamination, according to facility policy and applicable rules.
- (b) Soiled linen shall be stored and transported in a closed container which prevents airborne contamination of corridors, areas occupied by patients, and precludes cross contamination of clean linens.
- (6) Laundry chutes shall be maintained in a clean sanitary state.
KEY: health care facilities
Date of Last Change: September 13, 2017
Notice of Continuation: August 22, 2025
Authorizing, and Implemented or Interpreted Law: 26-21-5; 26-21-6; 26-21-16