Staff at two of Dublin's biggest hospitals have been told their hand hygiene isn't up to scratch.
Investigations by the Health Watchdog have found Tallaght and the Mater Hospitals are "generally unclean".
HIQA studies at a number of other Dublin hospitals earlier this year also uncovered a range of hygiene concerns.
Inspections at Tallaght hospital found damaged equipment both clinical areas that was not in line with infection control and prevention practice.
38% of nursing and healthcare assistant staff on one ward were identified as not having completed hand hygiene training in the year ending 30 June 2013.
Control of areas containing potentially to hazardous chemicals and medications at both Tallaght Hospital and the Mater required improvement to prevent risk of access by unauthorised persons.
Unlabelled syringes containing unknown solutions with attached and unattached uncapped needles were found stored in two kidney dishes on a worktop presenting a risk of injury.
Both hospitals must now publish a quality improvement plan on their website's within six weeks.
