The 2020 outbreak of COVID-19 has caused the cessation of general dentistry, with the exception of emergency hubs. Long term closure causes several issues within dental practices, especially with decontamination equipment. In this first in a series of posts we will look at steps that can be taken for the recommissioning dental decontamination equipment; Washer Disinfectors, Autoclaves and RO Units.
Clean the tank of the ultrasonic as well as the externals. Perform any manufacturer required validation tests, such as protein tests and soil tests. This is also a good time to check if the detergent you use is in date. In addition it is worth checking that the detergent you use is effective against enveloped viruses such as COVID-19.
Clean the chamber fully, removing any dust from the internal surfaces and door seal. Ensure the water and power are on and run the washer on a full cycle using water instead of detergent. Replace the detergent and run again to ensure the detergent is now in place throughout the inlet tubes. Complete validation measures including Wash Checks, Residual Protein and Thermometric tests to confirm that processes are running as you had intended. Update your recommissioning documents, logbooks and reorder any detergents or validation as required.
Fill and drain the unit at least twice before using any water. Test water quality using a MHPC Red Sampler and take a TVC reading. Do not use the RO water until it is suitable for the purpose. If being used for your DUWL make sure it is less then 100 CFU per ml. Use purchased water until the results are suitable. Contact your service provider if replacement filters or additional cleaning measures are required.
Contact your service provider for support and recommissioning steps. These may include cleaning the internal surfaces and chamber including the door seal, cleaning the reservoir and flushing with suitable water (fill and drain) before refilling and running the validation cycles and tests. Update your recommissioning documents, logbooks and reorder any validation tests as required.
Please get in touch with us if you need any assistance in preparation for practice reopening. In our next insight we will look at instrument reprocessing in practice.
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