Infection prevention and control: Guideline for speech pathologists, Version 1,2020.

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Table 1: Examples of the Hierarchy of Controls Applied to Biohazards in Practice

Level of Control

Workplace Example

• Assess the need to conduct work in-person (e.g., therapy, assessment, administration) and work remotely where possible. • Use technology to facilitate remote working practices (e.g., telepractice to delivery therapy, virtual meetings with colleagues). • Perform procedures that present a higher infection risk with the appropriate standard and transmission based precuations. • The positioning of the speech pathologist, client and any individuals during the session (e.g., • Identify physical barriers (e.g., acrylic screen) • The location of sessions (e.g., inside or outside) • Air-handling (e.g., ventilation) • Sensor controls to minimise high touch items (e.g., water taps, doors, bins) • Vaccinations • Standard precautions (e.g., hand hygiene, cough etiquette, clean frequently). • Communicate risks, rules and expectations (e.g., posters, education session, emails, text messages) • Limit number of individuals in an area (e.g., scheduling clients, staggering staff) • Length of sessions • Combining telepractice and face-to-face sessions to reduce length of sessions • Wear the most appropriate PPE for the task as determined by standard and transmission-based precautions (e.g., gloves, mask) • Policies and procedures face on or side-by-side, limiting time spent within the physical distance range between individuals).

Elimination Do not introduce the hazard or remove the hazard completely

Substitution Use a safer method of service delivery, product or approach

Engineering Controls A mechanical device or physical process

Administrative Controls Work methods or procedures that minimise exposure to a hazard

PPE Used or worn minimise risks to their health and safety

Adapted from multiple sources 11,27,29,30

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Infection Prevention and Control - Guideline for Speech Pathologists | Version 1, 2020