Dosing technology
departments or units. This enables adjustments to be made based on the particular types of instruments being processed, ensuring that each department’s requirements are met efficiently and effectively. Another significant advantage of a smaller
system is their ability to be located in an optimal position that does not necessitate a large or dedicated central location. Dosing units can be situated close to the washer disinfector being supplied, located on the floor or being wall mounted. Installation is quick and can be completed within a day; this type of system has simple maintenance needs and is a more affordable solution for smaller departments or facilities.
Innovations in dosing technology for decontamination Recent innovations have given rise to significant advancements in dosing technology. Developments in precision dosing, automation, and digital integration have led to more accurate, efficient, and safe dosing systems. These new technologies drive efficiency, sustainability, and innovation across the decontamination sector and will continue to shape the future of dosing technology. Modern automated dosing systems integrate
advanced technologies, including sensors and real-time monitoring to optimise chemical delivery. Innovations such as digital dosing pumps ensure high precision in chemical delivery, reducing human error, while flow- based proportional dosing adapts chemical concentrations to changes in water flow for greater efficiency. Connected monitoring systems enable remote tracking, logging, and data analysis, allowing for better control and refinement of dosing requirements over time. Safety and efficiency in dosing technology
have also improved with the development of closed-loop dosing systems. By eliminating manual chemical mixing and dilution, these systems prevent cross-contamination and minimise exposure risks for staff handling concentrated solutions. Digital logging of chemical usage ensures accurate dosing and regulatory compliance. Many manufacturers now incorporate RFID-tagged dosing containers that verify the use of approved chemicals, track which chemical batches are used, and prevent errors associated with incorrect selection of chemistry.
How advanced chemistry supports the decontamination process
Sustainability has become a key focus in dosing technology and chemical manufacturers have
also developed new and innovative super- concentrated formulations providing more effective, safer, and environmentally friendly solutions. Coupled with smart dosing algorithms, these can help optimise water and energy consumption, minimising waste. High-performance chemical formulations
play a crucial role in effective decontamination, with modern advancements introducing safer and more efficient solutions. Traditional alkaline detergents, often harsh on delicate instruments, have been replaced by hybrid alkaline alternatives that prevent corrosion on stainless steel and surgical-grade plastics. The additional inclusion of corrosion inhibitors helps protect instruments from long-term damage, ensuring material compatibility and extending the lifespan of expensive medical devices. As many decontamination processes
require cleaning at lower temperatures to preserve sensitive medical devices and robotic surgical instruments, innovations in cleaning chemistry have prioritised maintaining efficacy without compromising material integrity. Low-temperature enzymatic solutions perform effectively, while non-foaming surfactants minimise potential cavitation within the program cycles. Accelerated drying agents further enhance the process by reducing cycle times and improving turnaround speeds for reprocessed instruments. Pre-treating surgical instruments with
specialised solutions has played an increasing important role in recent years in many healthcare settings, preventing the drying of organic residues and ensuring effective subsequent cleaning. This pre-cleaning step is particularly important when immediate reprocessing is not possible, as blood, proteins, and other biological materials can adhere to instruments, making removal more difficult. Chemical pretreatments are designed to keep these contaminants moist, reducing the risk of biofilm formation and improving the overall
efficacy of enzymatic and chemical detergents used later in the cleaning cycle. Formulations are designed to be gentle on materials, ensuring compatibility with stainless steel, surgical-grade plastics, and delicate instrument surfaces. By integrating a reliable pre-treatment solution into the decontamination workflow, healthcare facilities can enhance cleaning efficiency, prolong instrument lifespan, and reduce the risk of inadequate sterilisation. These innovations collectively enhance
the efficiency, safety, and sustainability of decontamination processes in modern medical settings.
Key considerations for department managers There are some key questions Sterile Service Managers should ask when looking to implement changes to their decontamination processes: l Would the department’s efficiency be enhanced by implementing a dosing system?
l Do you have the infrastructure to allow the integration of a central dosing system or would you need to have a localised compact system?
l Would a dosing system help you attain your financial and sustainability targets?
l Would your department’s wellbeing and occupational health benefit from a dosing system?
Following an update or change, regular training sessions and competency assessments help employees develop the necessary skills for handling a new dosing system. Establishing Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) further reduces the risk of dosing-related errors and ensures uniform cleaning standards across departments. The increasing availability of data from
dosing systems allows managers to optimise processes through continuous monitoring and analysis. Smart technologies and connected devices provide real-time insights into dosing performance, enabling the detection of inefficiencies or incorrect dosing patterns. Trend analysis can highlight areas for improvement, while digital documentation supports audits and compliance checks, ensuring accountability and regulatory adherence. Investment in future- proof technologies is crucial for long-term efficiency and adaptability. Dosing technology data contributes to hospital management information allowing for centralised oversight and improved coordination. Additionally, customisable dosing software ensures flexibility, enabling healthcare facilities to adapt to evolving cleaning protocols and regulatory
April 2025 I
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