26/04/2026
Decon UK 2026 was hosted by University Hospitals Birmingham, Walsall Healthcare NHS Trust and The Royal Wolverhampton NHS Trust, and held at Molineux Stadium in Wolverhampton. The event was organised by Fitwise Ltd.
The conference provided a full and informative programme, covering a wide range of topics. Highlights included an engaging presentation by Martyn Wilkinson, a biomedical statistician, who explored sampling methods in controlled environments. Clare Nash, Head of Clinical Procurement Management, and Michael Hopkinson, Head of Supply Resilience and Sustainability, outlined the challenges facing the NHS in achieving Net Zero, with a focus on improving sustainability through the balance of reusable and single-use products.
Additional sessions included an insightful overview of how the RAF manages infection prevention and control (IPC) in airborne settings, including the unique challenges associated with transporting civilians. Delegates also heard how aseptic units can enhance sustainability by working with manufacturers to supply smaller packs of agar plates for isolators, helping to reduce waste.
Before lunch, Dr Phil Norville explored the future of decontamination, followed by Professor Martin Kiernan’s thought-provoking presentation, “If it works, why aren’t we doing it?”
Following lunch, delegates had the opportunity to visit a wide range of exhibition stands and network with colleagues working across infection control and decontamination.
The afternoon programme featured John Prendergast, who explored emerging technologies and new frontiers in decontamination, including the question of whether flexible endoscopes should be sterilised. The conference concluded with an in-depth presentation from Dr Mark Garvey on UV water trap technology, highlighting the risks associated with sink splashing, as well as considerations for surface disinfection and air sampling.
Overall, the conference was both informative and engaging. Delegates were awarded six CPD points for their attendance.
To find out more about upcoming events, please visit: https://www.firstpointdecon.com/upcoming-healthcare-conferences-and-events/
