Designated Infection Control Officer Job Description: Understanding the Role and Responsibilities of an Infection Control Officer

A Designated Infection Control Officer (DICO) plays a critical role in healthcare and emergency response agencies, particularly within EMS, fire departments, and hospitals. Their primary responsibility is to oversee and implement infection control measures to protect staff and patients from infectious diseases and exposure incidents. The DICO serves as the primary point of contact when occupational exposure to infectious material occurs and manages the reporting, follow-up, and education required to comply with regulatory standards.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Developing, implementing, and reviewing infection control policies and procedures in line with state and federal regulations (e.g., OSHA, CDC).
2. Acting as the liaison between exposed employees, healthcare providers, and public health authorities.
3. Facilitating risk assessments and supporting proper documentation of exposure incidents.
4. Providing ongoing training and education to staff regarding infection prevention and exposure protocols.
5. Coordinating post-exposure evaluations, treatment, and follow-up with affected personnel.
6. Keeping current with emerging infectious diseases and updating protocols as necessary.
7. Ensuring proper supply and use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
8. Preparing and submitting necessary reports related to infection control incidents.

Required Skills and Qualifications:

1. Background in healthcare, public health, or emergency medical services.
2. Strong knowledge of infectious diseases, epidemiology, and relevant health regulations.
3. Excellent communication and organizational skills.
4. Ability to work under pressure and handle sensitive information confidentially.

From a design perspective, ensuring infection control is also about creating safe, functional environments within healthcare or emergency service facilities. For example, as a designer, I focus on layout efficiency, materials selection for easy sanitation, and optimized workflow areas—which all complement the role of a DICO. The use of specialized tools, such as a office layout planner, can help you visualize infection control protocols in physical spaces, improve staff movement, and minimize cross-contamination possibilities. Ultimately, an integrated approach between policy and physical design enhances infection control, safety, and employee confidence.

Tips 1:

As a DICO, collaborate closely with facility designers early in the process. Proper design can reduce infection risk by ensuring clear separation between clean and contaminated zones, dedicated decontamination spaces, and easy-access storage for PPE.

FAQ

Q: What organizations require a Designated Infection Control Officer?

A: EMS agencies, fire departments, hospitals, and many public health organizations are mandated to have a DICO to comply with regulatory standards.

Q: What qualifications does a DICO need?

A: Usually a background in healthcare, EMS, or public health, with training in infection control and related regulations.

Q: What are the main duties of a DICO?

A: Overseeing infection control protocols, managing exposure incidents, training staff, and ensuring compliance with safety standards.

Q: How does facility layout affect infection control?

A: Thoughtful facility design minimizes cross-contamination, supports effective workflow, and enhances overall infection control measures.

Q: Can technology assist in infection control planning?

A: Yes, tools like digital layout planners can simulate different configurations to optimize infection control protocols within a workspace.