Washing Principles and Common Mistakes

Olivier Van Houtte, STERIS

Glassware and parts washers are often used for various cleaning and drying applications in laboratories and research facilities. A good understanding of basic principles of washing can ensure the best use of automated washing and prevent typical mistakes which can lead to inconsistent cleaning performance, lower productivity and higher operation and maintenance costs. Such knowledge represents an important step toward operational excellence.

As an example, some applications may require less water and detergent(s) than others to achieve optimal cleaning results. Most modern laboratory glassware washers provide the capability to adjust those parameters and consequently optimize utility consumptions. Unnecessarily long washing cycles, excessively high water temperatures, improper water types, and selection of accessories may also lead to poor cleaning performance, resulting in higher operation costs and utility consumptions.

This presentation will explain how important process parameters such as time, temperature, chemistry, coverage and mechanical action can affect the performance of an automated washing system. Best practices for selecting appropriate chemistries and loading accessories will also be presented. Finally, ways to avoid common mistakes when using automated washing systems will be discussed.

Learning Objectives

  • Understand how important process parameters such as time, temperature, chemistry, coverage and mechanical action can affect the performance of an automated washing system.
  • Learn how basic washing principles can help lower utility consumptions and operational costs, while increasing productivity.
  • Identify best practices for selecting appropriate chemistries and loading accessories.

Biography:

Olivier Van Houtte is Associate Product Manager in the Life Sciences Division of STERIS Corporation. Olivier holds a bachelor's degree in Business-Marketing from Quebec University in Quebec City, Canada. He is responsible for managing a broad portfolio of automated washing systems intended for the Pharmaceutical and Research Industries. He is a member of the ISPE, PDA, LAMA and AALAS organisations.

 

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