Infection is still one of the most frequent causes of morbidity and mortality following surgery. In the era of multi-resistant organisms it is essential that all surgeons have a clear understanding of the techniques used to prevent surgical infections. This article outlines the factors which contribute to infections in surgical practice and details of some of the techniques employed to decrease their incidence. Antiseptic and aseptic techniques play a key role in the reduction of surgical infection. Patient, surgeon and environmental factors all contribute to surgical-site infections (SSIs).