CQC Inspections Are Getting Tougher

If you're running a dental surgery in Gainsborough, your CQC rating isn't just a formality; it's a reputation-defining, practice-shaping score that patients care about. And when it comes to cleanliness, the bar has never been higher.

The 2025 National Standards of Healthcare Cleanliness have introduced a more rigorous inspection structure, and many practices are still making the same avoidable cleaning mistakes.

 

Mistake #1: No Colour-Coded Cleaning System

Using the same mop or cloth in multiple areas (e.g., toilet, then reception) is a fast-track ticket to contamination. The CQC expects a strict colour-coded cleaning regime, and they will ask to see it.

Our team at Clean Sweep Commercial uses NHS-recognised colour zones to reduce cross-contamination and show compliance at a glance.

 

Mistake #2: No Audit Trail or Cleaning Records

CQC inspectors won't just look at the surfaces. They'll check your records. If you don't have clear documentation of when, where, and how your surgery is cleaned, you're already losing points.

Our Sentinel system provides clients with access to real-time digital checklists, photo documentation, and timestamped logs, ensuring you're always inspection-ready.

 

Mistake #3: Inappropriate Use of Cleaning Chemicals

Some practices still use generic or domestic products in clinical areas. That's a red flag. The CQC expects hospital-grade disinfectants to be used correctly and in line with COSHH.

We use only compliant, safe, and effective cleaning agents, and our uniformed, DBS-vetted staff are trained in the proper use of these agents across all risk zones.

 

Mistake #4: Missed High-Touch Surfaces

Door handles, light switches, and waiting room chairs often get overlooked. However, these are precisely the areas where infection control fails, and CQC inspectors begin to raise eyebrows.

We clean beyond the obvious, paying special attention to all those small but significant points that matter during an inspection.

 

Final Thoughts

A clean practice isn't just about patient perception; it's a regulatory requirement. If you're unsure whether your current arrangements would pass a CQC audit, don't wait until it's too late.

Clean Sweep Commercial has been helping Gainsborough dental surgeries meet and exceed hygiene expectations for over 20 years, and we've never missed a clean.

 

Book a Free Walkthrough

Let us show you exactly how we can support your CQC compliance, from audit trails to spotless surfaces. Contact Clean Sweep Commercial today and get CQC peace of mind with zero stress.