Infection prevention begins well before a patient enters the exam room. From exam tables to hospital beds, every surface and textile in a healthcare setting plays a crucial role in reducing the risk of healthcare-associated infections (HAIs). This includes something as seemingly simple as linen.
Yet not all linen services are created equal.
At ImageFIRST, we go beyond “clean” by processing every linen through HLAC-accredited (Healthcare Laundry Accreditation Council) facilities, because in healthcare, hygiene must meet the highest possible standards.
What Is HLAC and Why Does It Matter?
The Healthcare Laundry Accreditation Council (HLAC) is a nonprofit organization that inspects and accredits laundry facilities that process reusable textiles for hospitals and other healthcare facilities. HLAC accreditation ensures that every step from soil sorting to final delivery adheres to strict, evidence-based protocols for infection prevention.
This is more than just a checklist. It’s a thorough assurance that linens are:
- Processed in a way that prevents cross-contamination
- Handled according to CDC and OSHA guidelines
- Delivered in a condition that supports clinical hygiene standards
The Hidden Risk of Non-Accredited Vendors
Many general linen providers and facility service vendors do not meet HLAC’s strict criteria. This creates risks of exposure, inconsistent cleanliness, and ultimately endangers patient safety.
Without HLAC oversight, it’s impossible to guarantee that linens are managed in a way that truly supports infection prevention goals.
ImageFIRST’s HLAC Commitment: Protecting Patients and Staff
At ImageFIRST, we process every healthcare textile through HLAC-accredited plants because we know your standards are non-negotiable.
Our system is built for healthcare from the ground up, offering:
- Validated sanitation processes proven to reduce pathogens
- Dedicated delivery protocols to prevent post-processing contamination
- Ongoing audits and quality assurance to maintain compliance
- Staff trained in infection prevention procedures
When paired with our fully managed linen program, HLAC accreditation ensures that your team receives consistent, hygienic, and high-quality textiles without any additional operational burden.
A Critical Infection Prevention Partner
Healthcare leaders understand that patients observe more than just clinical care; they notice cleanliness, comfort, and safety. Collaborating with a provider who prioritizes HLAC standards isn’t merely a wise decision; it’s a strategic safeguard.
With a 97% customer retention rate and decades of exclusive healthcare experience, ImageFIRST delivers not only linens but also peace of mind.
Contact ImageFIRST today to schedule a complimentary Linen Risk Assessment of your facility.