Decontamination

Effective decontamination of dental instruments presents a challenge. A number of groups are working to assist the dental team with some of the key issues. This page provides links to some helpful resources.

For in-practice training and information in relation to any infection control or decontamination queries access the booking form here In Practice Training | Turas | Learn (nhs.scot).

For self-assessment, there are self-assessed Decontamination FAQs ( see below).

Information on preferred contractors for Local Decontamination Units (LDUs) approved by Health Facilities Scotland (HFS) is available-  to see document click here (updated May 2013).

HFS have also produced a project management document for the provision of Local Decontamination Units (LDUs).

Health Facilities Scotland published the Scottish Health Technical Memorandum (SHTM) 01-05: Management, equipment and process of the decontamination of dental instruments in a Local Decontamination Unit (LDU) in NHSScotland.

As of April 2024, the SHTM 01-05 Part C: Process supersedes the SDCEP Decontamination into Practice guidance series.

A list of Approved Decontamination Equipment is available. This was last updated in January 2018.

Please note:-  Approved Decontamination Equipment list may change from time to time as new equipment is added and older machines become obsolete.

Dentists should contact Kris Lindsay, Commodity Manager on 0131 275 7454 or kris.lindsay@nhs.net with any queries.