Operating Theatre Zoning & Traffic Control in Surgical Hospitals
A Critical Step in Preventing Infections
At Aayush Multispeciality Hospital, Thane – By Dr. Ankur Bhanushali
What Is Operating Theatre (OT) Zoning?
OT zoning is a hospital infection-control system that divides the surgical complex into controlled areas to reduce contamination and maintain sterility during surgeries.
Why OT Zoning Is Essential in Surgical Practice
Improper movement increases:
❌ Surgical site infections
❌ Cross-contamination
❌ Airborne microbial load
❌ Post-operative complications
Zoning ensures controlled flow.
The Four Zones of an Operating Theatre Complex
1. Protective Zone
✔ Entry area
✔ Changing rooms
✔ Shoe change area
2. Clean Zone
✔ Pre-op rooms
✔ Instrument preparation
✔ Sterile storage
3. Sterile Zone
✔ Operation theatres
✔ Scrub areas
4. Disposal Zone
✔ Soiled utility
✔ Waste exits
Each zone has restricted access.
Traffic Control Inside the OT
✔ Limited personnel entry
✔ One-way movement policy
✔ Minimal door opening
✔ Restricted non-essential movement
Movement increases bacterial counts.
Colour Coding & Signage in OT Areas
✔ Clear demarcation
✔ Visual infection control cues
✔ Separate pathways for staff & patients
Helps maintain discipline.
Dress Code & Barrier Systems
✔ Zone-specific OT attire
✔ Mask & cap compliance
✔ Separate footwear for each zone
Human carriers are major infection sources.
Instrument & Equipment Movement Protocols
✔ Clean instruments in
✔ Contaminated instruments out
✔ No crossover of pathways
Reduces contamination risk.
Role of OT Nurses & Infection Control Team
✔ Monitor compliance
✔ Enforce traffic rules
✔ Audit staff behavior
Consistency is key.
OT Door Discipline & Air Pressure Control
✔ Positive pressure maintenance
✔ Door opening minimized
✔ Laminar airflow preserved
Air quality directly affects outcomes.
Emergency Situations & Controlled Flexibility
✔ Rapid access protocols
✔ Pre-defined emergency routes
✔ Staff training for crisis movement
Safety without chaos.
Benefits of Proper OT Zoning
✔ Lower infection rates
✔ Faster recovery
✔ Reduced antibiotic usage
✔ Improved surgical outcomes
Infrastructure supports skill.
OT Zoning Practices at Aayush Multispeciality Hospital
✔ Structured OT layout
✔ Staff training programs
✔ Regular infection audits
✔ Strict traffic protocols
Safety is built into design.
Why Dr. Ankur Bhanushali Focuses on OT Systems
✔ Infection prevention
✔ Patient safety
✔ Surgical excellence
✔ Global best practices
Good surgery starts before incision.
Aayush Multispeciality Hospital – Full Address
📍 1st Floor, Marigold Apartment, Almeda Road, Panch Pakhdi, Thane West – 400602, Maharashtra, India
📞 +91 86910 33033
🌐 https://drankurbhanushali.com
📍 https://maps.app.goo.gl/3Msc7YZqVkV9mQMQ7
Dr. Ankur Surgical Clinic – Full Address
📍 Shop No 4, Laxmi Krupa Building, Edulji Road, Charai, Thane West – 400602, Maharashtra, India
📞 +91 86910 33066
🌐 https://bestsurgeoninthane.com
📍 https://maps.app.goo.gl/XmmGNbgFyhGcqfvV6
