By Conner Behrens
At the core of UTMB's dedication to exceptional patient care is a group of unsung heroes: the Environmental Services team. Though their work often goes unnoticed, these professionals play a crucial role in maintaining cleanliness, safety and sustainability across all of UTMB's locations.
“Our responsibilities include cleaning and disinfecting patient rooms, common areas and specialized medical spaces, managing waste disposal and ensuring that all areas comply with health and safety regulations,” EVS Regional Director Kurt Dickson said “Our team is equipped with formal training, expertise in infection control and a strong commitment to high standards of disinfection and safety.”
The work of the EVS team is essential for daily operations at UTMB’s four locations, where cleanliness is closely linked to patient safety.
“The EVS department is vital for the hospital’s operation as it ensures a clean, safe environment that minimizes infection risks and supports overall patient care,” Dickson says. “Our preparations include rigorous cleaning protocols, adherence to infection control standards, the use of EPA-approved disinfectants and regular training on hygiene practices. We follow specific guidelines set by health authorities and implement best practices for environmental management.”
Collaboration is another key aspect of the department's role. The EVS team partners with the Infection Control, Facilities Management and Nursing departments to ensure that health standards are met.
“This collaboration involves coordinating cleaning schedules, addressing infection events and integrating new technologies or protocols that enhance patient safety and overall hospital efficiency,” Dickson said. “Together, we focus on maintaining and improving the hospital’s appearance to ensure a world-class experience for our patients and visitors.”
The EVS department’s commitment extends beyond cleanliness, however. They also adopt eco-friendly practices by using environmentally friendly cleaning products where applicable, managing hazardous materials and overseeing complex waste streams.
“I think many people don’t realize the depth of our involvement in preventing infections and ensuring compliance with strict health standards,” Dickson said. “The EVS department operates behind the scenes, but our work is integral to hospital operations.”
In response to recent health challenges, including the COVID-19 outbreak, the department has also enhanced its cleaning protocols and procedures.
“We have implemented advanced cleaning technologies like UV-C light, increased the frequency of disinfecting high-touch surfaces and adapted our waste management practices to handle increased volumes of medical and hazardous waste,” Dickson said. “Our adjustments ensure the safety of staff, patients and visitors.”
Alton Caldwell, a longtime EVS employee, said the department's staff undergoes regular training to uphold the highest cleaning standards possible.
"We thoroughly clean each room using a seven-step process to ensure patients enter a clean, disinfected environment," he said. "Since COVID, we have increased our cleaning frequency and continue to train daily. This ongoing training helps us do our part in keeping patients safe."
The commitment to keeping UTMB clean and safe is a continuous effort. The EVS team is always working on various improvements, such as upgrading cleaning technologies, optimizing patient room turnaround times,and enhancing staff training programs.
“We are constantly exploring new practices and tools to increase efficiency and sustainability,” Dickson said. “Our goal is to maintain a safe and functional hospital environment while adapting to new challenges and standards.”
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Photo 1, front: Kenia Perez, Saira Castillo, Maria Ramos, Cassandra Francis, Olga Gallegos, Reina Martinez, Maria Martinez; back: Juilo Fernandez-Cotter, Alton Caldwell, Winnie Richard, Kurt Dickson
Photo 2, front: Julio Cotter Fernandez, Myeshia Martin, Rosibel Salgado, Christal Rodriguez, Virginia Perez; back: Asia Gibson , Alton Caldwell, Kurt Dickson