Certified Healthcare Safety Professional (CHSP) Practice Exam

Who is primarily responsible for the safety and management of HVAC systems in healthcare?

1. Facility managers

2. Clinical staff

3. Infection control officers

4. Biomedical engineers

The correct answer is: Facility managers

The primary responsibility for the safety and management of HVAC systems in healthcare facilities falls to facility managers. This role encompasses overseeing the operation and maintenance of building systems, including heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC). HVAC systems are critical in a healthcare environment because they directly affect indoor air quality, temperature control, and humidity levels, all of which are essential for patient safety, comfort, and infection control. Facility managers ensure that these systems comply with safety standards, regulations, and best practices, which is crucial in settings where vulnerable populations receive care. While clinical staff, infection control officers, and biomedical engineers play important roles in the overall health and safety landscape of a healthcare facility, their responsibilities do not primarily focus on the overarching management and maintenance of HVAC systems. Clinical staff are more concerned with direct patient care, infection control officers concentrate on preventing infections and maintaining sanitary conditions, and biomedical engineers typically handle the maintenance of medical equipment rather than the building infrastructure itself. Therefore, it is facility managers who coordinate the various aspects of HVAC system operation to ensure a safe and healthy environment for both patients and staff.