How smarter logistics reduce hospital infections: The Envac healthcare solution

Healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) remain among hospitals’ most persistent challenges today. In Europe, these infections result in an estimated €13–24 billion in additional costs each year, largely due to extended patient stays or follow-up treatments stemming from poor infection control.

Many don’t realise that one key contributor to HAIs is how materials, particularly soiled linen and waste, are handled inside hospitals. At Envac, redefined hospital logistics play a crucial role in increasing efficiency and directly combating the spread of infection.

A critical factor in reducing bacterial growth is minimising the time soiled materials remain in the open air. Placing waste and linen inlets close to the point of origin, such as nursing stations, is recommended. This strategy significantly limits the opportunity for bacteria to multiply and spread.

Each inlet is connected to the sealed pipe system, which transports materials to a central collection point automatically, hygienically, and continuously.

For optimal performance, system integration must begin at the planning stage – particularly in close cooperation with architects and logistics experts. Many healthcare environments still rely on designs where inlets are placed at the end of corridors, which leads to inefficiencies and increases time spent transporting materials rather than caring for patients.

A well-planned design, tailored to each floor/unit can better support hospital workflows. For example, in a typical ward, locating inlets along the natural movement paths of staff, particularly near centrally positioned nursing stations, reduces walking distances and improves response times.

This approach redefines the traditional logistical layout. The system enables a complete rethink of material flow within wards, reducing non-clinical tasks for healthcare professionals and maximising time dedicated to patient care.

In surgical departments, installing inlets close to or within operating theatres is essential to avoid unnecessary movement of hazardous waste through shared corridors, thus maintaining sterile zones and minimising infection risks.

The moment carts or bins filled with waste leave the ward, the risk of infection escalates. These items are typically pushed through shared corridors and lift spaces also used by patients, visitors, and staff, and this movement becomes a pathway for cross-contamination. Adding to the concern, a WHO report indicates that 60% of healthcare facilities lack safe, proper waste management systems, exacerbating the risk of infection.

Envac’s system solves this by keeping all movement of waste and soiled linen within a closed pipe network. There’s no need for intermediate storage, vehicle transport, or manual handling. This sealed transport method ensures that bacteria cannot travel between wards, reducing infection risk across the entire hospital.

Envac’s technology is engineered with hygiene as a top priority. The systems incorporate:

• Negative pressure chutes to prevent contaminated air from re-entering the ward
• Rooftop extractor fans to maintain safe air direction and volume
• Airtight air intake valves to preserve environmental isolation

These features exceed many global infection control standards, including those set by the World Health Organisation (WHO) and the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC).

With over 180 installations in 25 countries, Envac’s healthcare solutions are already proving their value. Our systems are capable of managing five or more waste fractions, including:

Sources:

• Public Health Agency of Sweden
• European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control
• World Health Organisation (WHO)
• Envac Internal Study (2024)
• Royal Institute of Technology (KTH) – Infection Control Study