What you’ll learn:
The easy-to-miss details that can derail your CQC sign-off
How to spot where contractors fall short
Why a compliance expert saves time, stress and surprise costs
New practice, new problems
Setting up a squat practice is exciting, but it’s also one of the most stressful things a dental professional can take on. Between contractors, kit, and CQC inspections, there is a lot to juggle — and the margin for error is slim.
We work with new squat practices all the time, and we see the same issues again and again. Most are not your fault. They are usually the result of rushed plans, misinterpretation, or assumptions made by contractors who do not understand the unique compliance requirements of a dental setting.
Here are ten things to check before you hit the panic button or start firefighting unexpected issues.
1. Are your plans correct and complete?
Sounds obvious, but you would be amazed how often we spot major oversights in the plans themselves. The earlier we are involved, the easier it is to spot gaps before the build gets underway.
2. Can your fit-out contractor interpret building regs?
Dental surgeries are not standard shopfits. What works for a salon or a café does not always fly when it comes to CQC. If your contractor is not fluent in healthcare build regulations, you could find yourself paying twice.
3. Signage sorted? Probably not
One of the most common snags. Signage is often missed or non-compliant. Internal and external signs must meet accessibility and wayfinding standards. If you are not sure, we can provide what’s needed — but it’s always an on-cost if left too late.
4. Is your staff welfare room actually big enough?
This one comes up a lot. CQC inspectors do check that staff have a proper place to take a break. Cupboard-sized corners with a kettle won’t cut it.
5. Has the plumber installed the correct hot water system?
The wrong system could leave you non-compliant on Legionella control or unable to meet clinical handwashing standards. Not every plumber knows the difference.
6. Can your reception desk accommodate wheelchair users?
You need a section of the desk that is the right height and depth for wheelchair access. If it is all built to standing height, you could be looking at an expensive rebuild later.
7. Only have a disabled toilet? You might still need another sink
If space is tight and you have only one accessible toilet, don’t forget it will need an additional sink to meet requirements for general use. Another one that catches people out too late.
8. Are your reception chairs inclusive?
You need a mix of seating, including options with arms to support patients with reduced mobility. Soft furnishings from your living room Pinterest board probably will not do.
9. Are clinical waste bins hung securely?
Clinical waste bins should be wall-mounted, not freestanding. External clinical bins also need to be secured — a chain or padlock does the job. If not, expect a CQC red flag.
10. What’s in your medication fridge? Hopefully not last night’s curry
It sounds like a joke, but we have genuinely opened fridges to find someone’s lunch where the vaccines should be. Medication fridges must be used solely for that purpose. No exceptions.
We help get it right first time
If you are setting up a new practice, let us help you get compliant from the ground up. We are used to working alongside architects, contractors and practice managers at every stage.
From reviewing your plans and layout to flagging the common oversights, we can help you avoid costly mistakes — and a whole lot of stress.
Call Ian and the team at DAM to make sure your practice is good to go from day one.
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