SSIs are an inherent risk of surgical procedures, but should not be considered inevitable. While there is often a focus on reviewing practices when high rates are identified, it is important to assess routine practices to maintain as low of an endemic rate as possible. The core of SSI prevention is basic infection control practices, done right. This lecture provides an overview of SSI prevention strategies and common gaps, covering topics such as surgeon and patient preparation, post-operative wound care, surgical antisepsis, and the operating room environment.