Preview
long-term innovations including robotics and probiotics.
Sterile barrier systems Jim Tinsdeall reviewed the fundamentals of steam sterilisation, comparing containers, wrap, fabric systems, and peel pouches. Sustainability emerged as a central theme, with increasing scrutiny on plastics, water use, and waste. He encouraged future thinking – such as compostable clinical waste and highlighted the need for innovation aligned with environmental goals.
Rigid containers Dan Coole explored the design, validation, benefits, and limitations of sterilisation containers, noting challenges – such as increased washer capacity, workflow changes, and ergonomic considerations. Case studies showed potential cost and CO₂ reductions, but highlighted real-world issues including maintenance, damage risk, and staff training needs.
Linen and decontamination Jincy Jerry traced the evolution of sterilisation, contrasting mutation vs. metamorphosis in practice change. Sustainability pressures have prompted renewed interest in reusable linen, but serious IPC concerns persist – including dust, handling issues, non-compliant laundries, and outbreaks linked to linen. She stressed that environmental goals cannot compromise patient safety. The morning session wrapped up with an
interactive Q&A, led by Becky Hill through Mentimeter, alongside panel members Jim, Dan, and Jerry. (The free-access recording is available at:
https://centralsterilisingclub.org/p/ recordings/asd-2025-free-access-recording- of-session-7-qa-with-discussion/) The afternoon session then kicked off with a panel discussion, “Rethink, Revise, Rebuild; Co-Creating for a Better HTM”. (The free- access recording is available at: https://
centralsterilisingclub.org/p/recordings/ asd-2025-free-access-recording-of-session-8- rethink-revise-rebuild-co-creating-for-better- htms/)
Fans in healthcare Gail Lusardi went on to present the infection risks associated with portable fans, noting their ability to redistribute microorganisms and dust. With climate change driving increased use, she emphasised risk assessments, careful placement, and avoidance during aseptic procedures. She called for fan designs intended specifically for clinical environments.
Physical vapour deposition (PVD) Next up was Alistair Kean who explained PVD technology and its use in producing durable, high-performance coatings for medical instruments. He highlighted the importance of meticulous surface preparation, plasma cleaning, and material quality. Nature-inspired antimicrobial designs, such as nano-structured insect-wing surfaces, show promise for future innovation. Across all sessions, common themes emerged: sustainability pressures, evolving technology, persistent IPC challenges, and the need for collaborative, evidence-based innovation. The event underscored the sector’s commitment to continuous improvement and high standards in patient safety. You can still view the sessions online and individual recordings are available to download for a small fee from the CSC Shop page at:
https://centralsterilisingclub.org/c/ recordings/?orderby=date
Up-coming Annual Scientific Meeting Following on from the success of the Autumn study, the CSC is hosting its Annual Scientific Meeting at the Crowne Plaza Hotel Nottingham,
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www.clinicalservicesjournal.com I April 2026
on 20-21 April 2026. This year, the CSC will focus on the theme
of ‘risk’. Hippocrates, often called the ‘Father of Medicine’, revolutionised clinical practice by moving away from attributing illness to divine acts. Contrary to popular belief, it is unlikely that he wrote the oath bearing his name, which includes pledges like avoiding harm and refraining from surgery. In reality, medicine inherently involves risk, and practitioners constantly weigh harm against benefit – a principle that underpins the 2026 Annual Scientific Conference theme: Healthcare: It’s a Risky Business. The keynote speaker, Andrew Smith, is
Professor of Clinical Bacteriology & Hon. Consultant Microbiologist, University of Glasgow and NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde, and is currently the lead Microbiologist for Medical Device Decontamination in NHS GGC. He has been a long-standing member and contributor to the decontamination sector. Few understand healthcare risks better than he does. Surgical risk remains key to the Central
Sterilising Club. Scotland mandates single-use orthopaedic implants, yet other UK regions still reprocess items, risking failure. How do we balance single use versus reusable instruments? Speakers will explore this and address challenges with cleaning complex reusable tools. Endoscope decontamination also remains
critical. With over 1,700 types on the market, can we ensure effective cleaning and standard compliance? How do we communicate these risks to policymakers and the public? Key highlights of the event include: Vanda
Plefko (DIPC) will be talking about an endoscope final rinse water incident, providing valuable insights and opportunities for learning. Jim Tinsdeall will review the evolution of phaco handpieces, while Michelle Sullivan will explore an evolution of understanding and the journey
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