Website of the Department of Health

About the campaign

Alcohol based hand rubs will be placed next to all beds in acute hospitals from next April. Evidence shows rates of infection can be reduced by up to 50% by such measures.

Following a pilot study by the NPSA, Lord Warner has announced the first national campaign to encourage healthcare staff to clean their hands.

DH assessment of the study estimates that rolling out the pilot nationally would save 450 lives a year and dramatically reduce extended stays in hospital.

Lord Warner said:

'Tackling these infections has to be a major priority for all healthcare staff, as well as the Government. This campaign by the National Patient Safety Agency is a world first which deals with the problem at a number of levels. Evidence from the pilot has shown us that by providing disinfectant hand rubs by each patient's bed, raising awareness generally and actively encouraging patients to ask staff if they have cleaned their hands, we can make a real impact for the benefit of all.'

• NPSA campaign (opens new window)