Mrs Timna Kerr1
1GAMA Healthcare Australia, Australia
Biography:
With over 35 years' in healthcare, Timna has worked in acute and non-acute settings. Working for industry partners, Timna's interests led her to infection prevention seven years ago and now includes skin integrity.
Abstract:
The Problem
Effective decontamination and adherence to transmission-based precautions (TBPs) are critical components of infection prevention and control (IPC). Variability in cleaning and disinfection practices across healthcare settings may contribute to inconsistent implementation, reduced compliance, and increased patient risk. Simple, standardised approaches that support decision-making and minimise human factors may strengthen IPC practice and improve patient safety outcomes.
Methods
A structured decontamination protocol, GAR-O™ (Green–Amber–Red–Outbreak), was developed using international IPC guidelines and evidence-based disinfection principles. The framework aligned levels of cleaning and disinfection with transmission-based precautions, validated disinfectant efficacy, and patient risk. Visual communication tools and integration into isolation signage were incorporated to support implementation and improve usability. Healthcare organisations across Spain, South Africa, Kuwait, and the United Arab Emirates were engaged to evaluate feasibility and practical application.
Results
Participating organisations reported that the GAR-O™ framework improved clarity regarding cleaning requirements and supported more consistent implementation of transmission-based precautions. The RAG-rated structure and visual tools enabled rapid identification of required actions, improved communication between teams, and supported compliance monitoring.
Conclusion
The GAR-O™ protocol provides a practical and scalable framework to standardise decontamination practices aligned with transmission-based precautions. Broader implementation and evaluation may support improved compliance, reduced practice variation, and strengthened patient safety outcomes across diverse healthcare settings. Lessons learned highlighted the importance of simplicity, standardisation, and visual communication in supporting frontline implementation.