Staff must be thoroughly trained to enable implementation of the code. The procedures should be reviewed, reinforced and updated regularly, with documentation on cross infection control kept in the practice. The principle embodied in this code of practice is to work as if 'all' patients are infected. Infection control should be sufficient at all times to protect patients and staff from contracting infection as a result of dental treatment. However, it is acceptable practice management for dentists to specially schedule treatments of patients with known infective conditions.
Dentists have a professional responsibility to ensure the safety of their patients and staff.
Transmission of infection can occur from patient to dental care personnel and vice versa. The potential exists for transmission by other pathways in the dental surgery environment. The concept of a primary clinical area around the patient should be developed. Touching instruments, equipment and furniture outside the clinical working area while treating spreads contamination beyond the primary clinical area. There is a danger of contamination being spread via aerosols and therefore critical items outside the clinical area are at risk if not stored under cover.