-    controlled traffic flow to separate clean and contaminated areas

-    using three-zone concept to maintain a high level of sterile technique

The three zones in the surgical department are:

(i) Unrestricted area (ZONE 1)

o       where personnel in street clothes such as patient’s relatives, can interact with those in scrub clothing  such as surgeons

o       includes holding area and staff locker rooms

(ii) Semi-restricted area (ZONE 2)

o       authorized personnel in surgical attire and disposable cap

o       includes peripheral support areas and corridors

(iii) Restricted area (ZONE 3)

o       masks are required to supplement surgical attire

o       includes OT proper, clean core just outside the OT; support spaces adjacent to OT such as the storage areas for sterile supplies and instruments

Adapted from "Operating Theatre Design" (2004), Pauline Ann Leung