All cleanroom laboratories require an aseptic environment for optimal testing conditions. Consistent and effective cleaning is required to minimize biocontamination in the entire facility. SWA Services Group has serviced biotechnology industries in the Bay Area and accumulated our years of knowledge and experience into a best practice guide. Here are six tips on how to properly disinfect your cleanroom.
Understand your cleanroom requirements.
Not all cleanrooms are held to the same standards. Each cleanroom will have requirements based on its industry type.
Cleanrooms have class ratings and must adhere to a specific:
Layout - room designed to prevent cross-contamination and structured for optimal workflows
ISO rating - determines air cleanliness based on acceptable particle size per cubic meter
Always keep doors closed.
This helps maintain positive pressure where air is being pushed outward as opposed to being sucked in. Positive pressure is great for keeping contaminants outside the room.
Regular cleaning is absolute.
All cleanrooms should be regularly cleaned on a daily and weekly basis. This helps ensure rigorous safety standards across your entire facility.
Wear appropriate personal protection.
Clothes are some of the biggest vectors of contamination. Cleanroom janitorial staff should include these personal protection gear:
Disposable gloves
Shoe covers
Disposable bouffant caps
Facial covers such as surgical masks
Use neutral, non-foaming, and non-ionic cleaners.
These cleaners will help prevent extra buildup of chemicals on surfaces over time.
Commonly used cleaners are:
Isopropyl Alcohol
Sodium Hypochlorite
Hydrogen Peroxide
Use only deionized and distilled water.
Water quality impacts product quality. Avoid using tap water due to the chemicals it absorbs from the ground, air, and any material it comes in contact with. Sterile water should be used for any appropriate cleaning agent.
Based on your cleanroom laboratory’s class rating, supplementary techniques such as UV lighting, interlocking doors, and rigorous protocols might be required. Contact SWA Services Group to better understand what your cleanroom might need and develop an action plan to meet the industry standard.