Year Issued: 2021

Using the Water and Sanitation for Health FacilityImprovement Tool (WASH FIT) in Zimbabwe: A Cross-Sectional Study of Water, Sanitation and Hygiene Services in 50 COVID-19 Isolation Facilities

As a part of COVID-19 preparedness and response interventions, the Government of Zimbabwe, UNICEF, and civil society organizations conducted WASH assessments in 50 HCFs designated as COVID-19 isolation facilities. Assessments were based on the Water and Sanitation for Health Facility Improvement Tool (WASH FIT), a multi-step framework to inform the continuous monitoring and improvement of WASH services. The WASH FIT assessments revealed that one in four HCFs did not have adequate services across the domains of water, sanitation, health care waste, hand hygiene, facility environment, cleanliness and disinfection, and management.

National Standards on Water, Sanitation and Hygiene for Healthcare Facilities (2021) 

The National Standards on WASH for Healthcare Facilities were developed by Nepal’s Ministry of Health and Population to ensure that all health facilities across the country meet minimum requirements for clean water, sanitation, and hygiene. These standards align with the constitutional rights of citizens to access safe drinking water and basic health services, and they also support Nepal’s efforts to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals by 2030.

The document provides clear, actionable guidance on how to improve WASH services in hospitals, clinics, and other care settings. It includes detailed protocols for water quality and access, toilet and handwashing facilities, infection control, healthcare waste management, and hygiene promotion. These standards aim to reduce infections, protect health workers and patients, and enhance the overall quality and dignity of care. Implementation is structured to involve federal, provincial, and local governments, along with health workers, facility managers, and community members.

Green and Safe Health Facilities Manual-1st Edition-Philippines

The Green and Safe Health Facilities Manual details environmental considerations for all health facilities. The standards and criteria in this manual are aimed at enhancing patient safety through improved indoor environmental quality, site sustainability, health care waste management, energy and water efficiency in all facilities. Find the manual here!