Why your water management program is important

Over time, I’ve spoken a fair amount about the work of Matt Freje and the folks at HCInfo in improving the approaches to the management of risks associated with water systems. They’ve been leading the charge in this area for as long as I can remember, and they continue to be what I would consider the “gold standard.” While their “product” is helping facilities manage water risks, what they are all about is helping folks protect people, which can sometimes get lost in the regulatory compliance chase. In general, we don’t manage these risks because a regulatory agency requires it, but rather because it helps us protect the folks who are at greater risk.

As a reminder of what can be at stake in the water management charge, HCInfo is hosting a webinar to provide a forum for a Legionnaire’s Disease survivor to share her story. The details on the registration page indicate that this is not going be scientific or a case study, but rather to encourage other Legionnaire’s Disease survivors. But I think it’s worth sharing to provide a reminder of the humanity that relies on our providing an appropriately safe environment. We aren’t always privy to the downstream impact of our efforts, but imagine making this much of an impact! Sign up for the March 5 webinar here.

About the Author: Steve MacArthur is a safety consultant with Chartis Clinical Quality Solutions (formerly known as The Greeley Company) in Danvers, Mass. He brings more than 30 years of healthcare management and consulting experience to his work with hospitals, physician offices, and ambulatory care facilities across the country. He is the author of HCPro's Hospital Safety Director's Handbook and is contributing editor for Healthcare Safety Leader. Contact Steve at stevemacsafetyspace@gmail.com.