What is an example of an engineering control in infection control?

Engineering controls in infection control are designed to isolate or remove hazards from the workplace environment. These controls emphasize the use of physical design or materials to reduce the risk of exposure to infectious agents.

Needle safety mechanisms serve as a prime example of engineering controls because they are specifically designed to minimize the risk of needlestick injuries. These devices often include features such as retractable needles or shielding that automatically protects the needle after use. By providing a physical barrier or mitigating the exposure risk associated with needles, these safety mechanisms effectively reduce the likelihood of transmission of infections among both healthcare providers and patients.

The other options, while important components of an infection control strategy, do not qualify as engineering controls. Hand hygiene involves personal practices to eliminate pathogens, personal protective equipment serves to protect the individual user, and disinfection of surfaces addresses contamination but does not involve altering the physical environment to prevent exposure. These methods often rely on human behavior or chemical processes rather than engineering solutions to minimize risks.