While ice machines are not an environment where viruses, like COVID-19, can grow because a virus requires a living cell in order to reproduce. While it is possible to transfer coronavirus to a patient by someone using an ice machine, there are ways to ensure that this doesn’t happen, according to a blog post on the Healthcare Facilities Today website.
To reduce the chances of contamination and spreading the disease when serving ice to patients:
• Always keep the bin door closed when ice is not being used.
• Require employees to wash their hands before scooping ice out of the bin.
• Always use an ice scoop to dispense ice. Do not scoop using glassware.
• Store the ice scoop outside of the bin.
• Regularly clean and rinse the scoop with a mixture of 8 oz of chlorine bleach per gallon of water.
Cathryn Jakicic is healthcare industries editor of FacilitiesNet.com. For more information on hospital campuses and other medical facilities, click here.
