What are non-tuberculous mycobacteria and what are the dangers? Recognised as an ’emerging public health concern’, 
non-tuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) are posing an ever-increasing risk to immunocompromised populations. There has been a documented global increase in pulmonary NTM infections and disease, requiring an introspective analysis of existing water quality and safety measures. In healthcare environments it is

The NHS is operating under immense strain. Crumbling infrastructure, record-high waiting lists, and mounting pressure on staff have all become defining challenges. With some facilities dating back to the mid-20th century, many are no longer fit-for-purpose, while soaring energy costs, safety concerns, and growing maintenance backlogs compound the problem. Meanwhile, demand for services continues to

Hospital privacy curtains, though essential for patient dignity, are increasingly being recognised as high-risk touchpoints. Recent scientific research, particularly a 2023 study published in Infection Prevention in Practice, investigated whether antimicrobial curtains offer a meaningful reduction in healthcare-associated infection (HAI) risk.1 Conducted at a major US military hospital, the study, titled ‘New patient privacy curtains

The government has published the 10 Year Health Plan that it says will deliver ‘radical change’ in the NHS and create a more local, more personalised experience for patients. The plan, titled Fit for the Future, is a big document. Online, it runs to more than 160 pages, across nine sections, an executive summary, and

The NHS’s commitment to achieving Net Zero emissions by 2040 is entering a pivotal stage. Back in July, NHS England required all Trusts and Integrated Care Boards (ICBs) to submit their updated green plans, and now the emphasis is squarely on delivery. Strategy must translate into real, measurable action across estates and facilities. This next

The NHS estate is under immense pressure — and not just metaphorically. While staff and Trusts continue to work tirelessly to provide the care patients deserve, ageing buildings, deteriorating infrastructure and a growing backlog of maintenance make this increasingly challenging, affecting patient safety, staff wellbeing and overall system efficiency. Yet with the introduction of the

Healthcare-associated infections (HCAIs) pose a significant challenge to patient safety and healthcare delivery. According to a 2022 report from the World Health Organization (WHO), out of every 100 patients in acute-care hospitals, seven patients in high-income countries and 15 patients in low- and middle-income countries will acquire at least one HCAI during their hospital stay.

In healthcare environments, ventilation is far more than a background utility, it is a clinical safeguard. The systems that manage it are integral to infection prevention, patient safety, and the overall resilience of healthcare infrastructure. From operating theatres to isolation rooms, the quality and control of air can directly influence clinical outcomes. Yet despite this

Fire safety requires a multifaceted approach, including escape plans, fire compartments, fire doors, smoke alarms, firestopping, amongst many others. It also requires careful specification of insulation materials, meaning those that have low smoke emissions. Taking this approach can significantly reduce the risks associated with smoke inhalation and enhance chances of survival in the event of

As healthcare estates continue to evolve, the expectations placed upon them have never been higher. Operators are tasked with delivering environments that support exceptional patient experiences, promote staff wellbeing, meet increasingly ambitious sustainability targets, and remain resilient against operational challenges. These requirements are not just competing priorities, they’re deeply interconnected, and, at the centre of

For decades, ventilation has been at the centre of efforts to control airborne contamination in surgical settings. However, growing evidence and practical challenges have made something very clear; ventilation alone is not enough. The conversation must expand to include filtration as a fundamental pillar of indoor air quality in operating theatres. This article explores the

To comply with these requirements, most Trusts enter into a service and maintenance contract with a specialist provider. However, the level of support provided by firms under these contracts can differ. Before entering into these agreements, it is important to confirm that the organisation has the skills, knowledge, and training to not only carry out

The design and operation of buildings impact the cost of care, resiliency, sustainability, public perception, and — most importantly — patient outcomes. With this in mind, healthcare facilities — perhaps more than any other type of building due to their societal role — should aim to implement the most efficient and sustainable cooling and heating

As the NHS continues its long-term shift toward preventative healthcare, the construction industry can play a vital enabling role in shaping environments that promote early intervention, integrated care, and better outcomes. This aligns with the NHS’s 10-Year Plan, which outlines three strategic priorities: focusing on preventing sickness, not just treating it. making better use of

Vital Services (VS), a wholly owned subsidiary of Birmingham Women’s and Children’s NHS Foundation Trust (BWC), was once again honoured to participate 
in the HOPE (Hospitals of the European Union) 
Exchange Programme this year, for the second year running. We welcomed two professionals for a four-
week placement during May. The HOPE Programme is a unique