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Inspecting medical devices is something we all know, but are you applying the same logic to your equipment and, more specifically, to your cleaning chemistries?
Chemistry bottles and management systems should be checked daily for functionality and integrity. Marking bottles with dates and level lines at the end of a shift is a simple way to make sure your pumps are working as they should. As the day goes by, check the bottles to make sure the level of chemistry has moved below the previous line. If it hasn’t, this could indicate a problem.
While you mark the bottle, follow your detergent lines up to the pump and look for leaks, cracks, or air bubbles in the lines. If chemistry bottles are hooked up directly inside the washer, this same practice can be applied. Leaky lines here can cause an absolute mess!
Detergent dosing systems have their own inspection points. Check the housing of the pumps for cracks, especially around screws, where cracks commonly develop. Also be sure to inspect the lines coming out for residue or drips.
Is the floor in your detergent room or in front of the washer sticky? This could indicate a leak with the detergent line or dispenser. This can create a safety hazard for the team, including fall and chemical exposure risks. Are caps on the chemistries secured, or are they open, leaving the tubing and chemistry exposed? This is a simple check to ensure foreign material does not enter your cleaning chemistry bottles.
Taking just a few moments to inspect your cleaning chemistries and dispensing equipment can help identify potential issues early and support a more consistent cleaning process. After all, effective cleaning starts with equipment and chemistries you can trust.
Rebecca Peplau B.S., CSPDT, CRCST, CER, CHL
Clinical Education Specialist
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