Hidden dangers of the cleanroom
Posted by SOS Cleanroom on 27th Jul 2017
When you think cleanroom, you should think sterile, controlled environment. Whether it be pharmaceutical drugs, technological manufacturing, or scientific research, professionals rely on cleanrooms for their safety. Free from dust, contaminants, and other pollutants, cleanrooms present a variety of industries a space to produce and manufacture products that require controlled variables, without the interruption of outside sources.
Maintaining the safety of a cleanroom requires regulated high standards, through training and inspection. Though there are practices put in place, maintaining safety in a cleanroom is more difficult than one may think, due to the unpredictability of what could go wrong. To ensure that your safe room is as safe as possible, it is critical that you are aware of potentially hazardous hidden dangers, taking control of certain factors to avoid the risks at hand.
Improper Garment Usage
Everyone in the cleanroom should have the proper training, and part of training should include how to properly wear gowns and face masks. When putting your gown on, it should never touch the floor, counters, or furniture, eliminating the risk of potential contamination. And your facemask? Never wear it inside out! Seems silly, but if it happens you put yourself and your health in harm's way.
Holes
No hole is a good hole, but especially when it is in your HEPA filter. Having holes around your HEPA ceiling filter is dangerous for the obvious reason that your filter is now broken. The bigger question may be how did a hole happen? But we've seen it done and trust us, when it does, you need to get your filter replaced immediately to avoid dangerous situations.
Tacky Mats
Mats are wonderful for containing the contaminants on the bottom of your feet; however, if your mat is too sticky, it can quickly turn into a tripping hazard, putting you and all your colleagues in harm’s way. To prevent accidents, make sure that you mat is cleaned regularly and that it is the right size. We sell a variety of mats online, and would be more than happy to help you decide what mat is right for you.
Type of Flooring
It's goes without saying that the type of flooring in your cleanroom can either benefit your product production, or create an instant hazard. What happens to the floor when something spills? Does your flooring contribute to static electricity requiring you to obtain an ESD device? Is your floor worn, and does it need to be replaced? Make sure you have what you need for your specific cleanroom specifications to protect you and your project.
Communication Devices
What type of communication devices are you using while actively using your cleanroom? Many professionals do not realize that their communication device can be a hazard if it is not worn and used properly. Walkie-talkies, cellphones, and pagers all present their own unique dangers; make sure you know what will be the most effective device for you, before starting your project.
Hidden or not, you should be aware of the dangers in your cleanroom before beginning any project. Of course, you can reduce the hidden risks of your cleanroom simply by purchasing all your cleanroom supplies from SOS Cleanroom. Know how to keep your cleanroom safe, and remember who you can rely on for all your cleanroom supplies and products.
Putting your needs first, we invite you to take a look at all of our cleanroom supplies and products and contact us with any further questions you may have. Do not fall victim to the dangers that can be avoided. Shop now.