The following tasks are needed to maintain clean, hygienic consulting rooms:

• An effective disinfectant should be made up at the correct dilution in a suitable container on a daily basis. This is used with disposable towel to wipe down the examination table after each consultation.
   
• The same solution can be used to clean surfaces, bins and small splashes of blood or urine.
   
• Large soiled areas should be dealt with using a bucket and mop.
   
• Dust and hair should be regularly vacuumed.
   
• The sink should be cleaned first with a proprietary cleaner and then disinfected.
   
• The source of any unpleasant odours should be removed and air fresheners changed frequently.
   
• Protective clothing, including disposable aprons, gloves and face masks should be to hand in each consulting room.
   
• Waste must be disposed of correctly, and bins should have lids to prevent children and dog noses from investigating. A brief summary of waste disposal follows: 
   
  • Black bin bag: regular waste. 
     
  • Yellow bag: Grade A clinical waste (material contaminated with blood, infectious material and syringes).
     
  • Yellow bag striped with black: Grade E clinical waste (material contaminated with urine/faeces).
     
  • Green Doop container: pharmaceutical waste. 
     
  • Yellow sharps container: needles.