ROCKET Infection Control Programme

Author: Brian Halse, ROCKET Patient Safety Manager / Flight ECP

ROCKET is proud to announce the successful completion of comprehensive surface swabbing analysis across its entire helicopter fleet, reinforcing the organisation's commitment to infection control and patient safety standards that align with its core values of excellence, safety, and innovation.

As South Africa's leading independent helicopter emergency medical services provider, ROCKET operates the largest twin-engine helicopter ambulance fleet in Africa. The organisation has consistently demonstrated its commitment to safety leadership through its BARS accreditation and distinction as the first South African rotary-wing operator to receive the prestigious Litson & Associates Gold Standard Safety Award.

ROCKET Air Ambulance and Air Rescue

ROCKET Infection Control Programme: Ensuring Safety and Cleanliness Across Operations

The recent infection control initiative reflects ROCKET's foundational principle of being "proudly patient-centric," where patient interests and safety remain sacrosanct priorities. This comprehensive approach to infection prevention and control demonstrates the organisation's commitment to maintaining the highest standards of cleanliness and safety across all operational aspects.

The infection control programme involved systematic surface swabbing analysis of all helicopters and medical equipment within ROCKET's fleet. The testing programme evaluated aerobic colony counts from critical contact surfaces, medical equipment interfaces, and patient care areas, following established infection control standards for critical healthcare environments.

Proactive Surface Sampling Enhances Infection Control in ROCKET Operations

Surface sampling was conducted across multiple ROCKET operational bases, with results assessed against stringent infection control benchmarks. The analysis covered high-touch surfaces that represent the greatest risk for potential pathogen transmission during patient transport operations. Critical areas were evaluated against the most stringent standards.

The testing programme demonstrated ROCKET's proactive approach to infection prevention, going beyond standard cleaning protocols to implement evidence-based monitoring systems that ensure consistent safety standards across the entire fleet. This initiative aligns with international best practices for helicopter emergency medical services and reflects the organisation's commitment to maintaining world-class operational standards.