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    Sep 11
    Blog: Thank You, Environmental Services Team!

    National Healthcare Environmental Services Week, which runs September 8-14, celebrates our dedicated environmental services (EVS) team for their outstanding work keeping our facilities clean and safe all year long.   

    In addition to their duties, members of our EVS team have been completing course work to earn the Certified Healthcare Environmental Services Technician (CHEST) credential through the Association for the Healthcare Environment, a national organization for EVS leaders.  

    “We are so proud of our team. We have a 100% pass rate for the exam. Currently, we have 46 CHEST certified staff members across three campuses, which is more than half the staff,” Manager for Environmental Services Deborah Grant says. “Two of our EVS leaders are certified as instructors for the course, and we offer it several times each year as need dictates.” 

    Our dedicated EVS staff works day and night to clean, disinfect, and kill any unseen thing that could be living on any surface. They replace linens, remove regular and medical waste, and take care of unscheduled or emergency housekeeping services, such as spills or event set-up. 

    Working hand-in-hand with the infection control team, these front line employees are an integral part of discussions to keep the hospital safe for patients, staff, and visitors. As a 24/7 facility, they work with nursing supervisors to make sure they are scheduled with the time they need to clean a room, and they are consulted before new construction to ensure new spaces include necessary access for thorough cleaning.

    “The CHEST credentialing program provides staff with a deeper understanding of the work they do, their role in patient care, and how they fit in the overall organization,” Grant says. “The credential not only enhances the quality of our services, but also gives staff recognition for the professionals they are, including an opportunity for advancement.”

    The Saratoga Hospital community extends its deepest gratitude for our Environmental Services team and their relentless commitment to fighting infection. Thank you!