I was interested to read the ‘Technical editor’s view’ within the article on the Weiss Klimatechnik Mediclean CPM system in the November 2012 issue of Health Estate Journal (pages 71-74).
The use of continuous particle monitoring (CPM) in operating theatres (OT) exceeds the current German Standard because it is measuring particles on line during surgery; as it is self-testing, ongoing checks and re-tests are not necessary. The aim of our product and research is to transfer the current state-of-the art practice found in our pharmaceutical business into the theatre environment. The discovery of non-sterile air quality in Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) environments will see drugs manufacture halted immediately. If the air flow in an operating theatre becomes contaminated (usually from contact with human beings), then the air volume must be readjusted for the benefit of the patient from a pathogenic material standpoint. The set point CPM ventilation runs according to the required number of particles (for example GMP Class A, 100 Part./cft). The higher the number of counted particles, the higher the air volume flow, and vice-versa. CPM is designed to operate at 0.20-0.38 m/s outlet air velocity. This means that, providing theatre staff are vigilant over hygiene, the ventilation will operate with an air velocity of approximately 0.2 m/s. Where particle pollution occurs, however, the system will operate with an air velocity of 0.38 m/s max, which is in accordance with HTM 03-01. When theatres are not in use, the system will close down. The next time that the theatre is used, and the system activated, the CPM should display a green light, signifying that the system is ready to operate.
Rupert Mack,
General Manager,
Weiss Mediclean
