Cross contamination is one of the biggest threats in a life science lab and medical centers. Even a minor oversight can jeopardize samples, skew results, trigger compliance violations, and put lab personnel at risk.
While most labs have strict sterilization protocols to disinfect instruments and medical devices, manual cleaning creates inevitable room for human error. That’s why many labs opt for washer decontamination. Unlike hand washing, these automated systems are much more efficient, safe, and reliable.
At BetterBuilt, we provide premium, customizable smart washer decontamination solutions to safeguard the integrity of your research. In this post, we’ll explore how washer decontamination helps labs achieve the highest standards of sterility and safety.
The Key Benefits of Smart Washer Decontamination in Lab Sterilization
Washer decontamination units use high-pressure water jets, detergents, enzyme treatments, and drying systems to sterilize lab equipment.
For example, BetterBuilt’s D403 Series Washer Decontaminator is designed to clean surgical instruments safely and efficiently. Available for both small and large life science facilities, it offers:
- Automatic vertical lift doors with a safety air cushion system.
- Easy-to-use touchscreen controls with Activ™ PM diagnostics.
- Quiet operation, keeping sound levels below 70 dB.
- Optional ARC system for multi-washer automation and sterile processing.
With that said, let’s explore how washer decontamination helps maintain lab sterility.
Efficient, Automated Cleaning and Repeatable Results
Manual hand cleaning is naturally inconsistent because it depends on people – who are prone to mistakes. A technician might accidentally miss a tool, flask, or small spot, potentially contaminating the next procedure.
With washer decontamination, the entire machine cleaning process is automated. Each piece of equipment is cleaned to the highest standard with the appropriate cleaning solution, every time. Pre-set cycles for different tools guarantee all your equipment meets strict sterilization standards.
Another benefit is that smart washer decontamination is far more effective than hand washing. You can use hotter water and stronger cleaning agents for a deeper, more intensive cleaning.
Comprehensive Cleaning for Complex Equipment
Labs often use intricate glassware, like volumetric flasks, pipettes, and graduated cylinders with narrow necks and hard-to-reach areas. Cleaning these by hand may leave residue behind.
Leftover residue increases cross-contamination and safety risks, especially in labs working with infectious agents or hazardous chemicals. In worst-case scenarios, you may have to shut down your operations to find and fix the issue.
Washer decontamination solves this problem with specialized racks and spray arms that direct high-pressure water jets into every corner. This way, even the most awkwardly shaped equipment gets thoroughly cleaned and is ready for safe use.
Additional Benefits of Smart Washer Decontamination
A More Streamlined Disinfecting Process
For most labs, time is money. You can’t afford delays when there’s research to complete and deadlines to meet.
Waiting for clean tools can hold up procedures and daily tasks. Washer decontamination systems automate the cleaning process, detergent cycle, and drying process – making sure your equipment is ready when you need it.
Labor Efficiency
The last thing you want on a busy day is your staff tied up washing equipment. Hiring extra help is an option, but with lab techs earning around $24.24 per hour, the labor costs can add up quickly.
Automated washer decontamination frees your team to focus on more important tasks like collecting samples, monitoring procedures, or caring for specimens. Besides improving productivity, it helps boost morale by letting your staff do more meaningful work.
Customized Solutions
No two life science labs have the same needs. Smart washer decontamination units can be customized to fit your lab’s specific requirements—whether you’re running a small research facility or managing a large, multi-lab complex.
You can also fine-tune cleaning cycles to match your equipment, with options for adjustable racks, specialized spray arms, and cleaning protocols tailored to your materials and tools.
Avoid Compliance Issues
Labs must meet strict industry standards and guidelines, including Good Laboratory Practices (GLP), ISO certifications, and other frameworks that require thorough, documented cleaning and sterilization processes.
Since automated washer decontamination delivers consistent, high-quality results, you’ll find it easier to maintain ongoing compliance and avoid issues during inspections. Moreover, these systems log every cleaning cycle, so when it’s time for an audit, you’ll have all the records ready.
Energy Efficiency and Sustainability
Studies show that labs use five to ten times more energy per square meter than office spaces. As sustainability becomes a rising concern, it’s important to explore more environmentally conscious alternatives to reduce energy consumption.
Automated washer decontamination is a great place to start. Modern systems are built with sustainability in mind, using optimized water cycles, energy-efficient heating, and eco-friendly detergents to help reduce your lab’s carbon footprint.
Better Safety for Lab Personnel
Washer decontamination plays a key role in protecting your lab staff. Contaminated equipment can expose them to serious health risks, such as:
- Bacterial or viral infections
- Chemical burns or poisoning
- Allergic reactions or sensitivities triggered by biohazard exposure
- Long-term health effects like cancer, respiratory issues, or organ damage from exposure to carcinogens.
Automating the cleaning process minimizes direct contact with contaminated tools and glassware, reducing the risk of injuries and contamination incidents.
Contact BetterBuilt for Smart Washer Decontamination Solutions
Washer decontamination is essential for labs focused on efficiency, compliance, and sanitation. As labs grow and take on more complex research, these reliable sterilization systems will become even more critical to keeping operations running smoothly.
Do you have more questions on washer decontamination?
The BetterBuilt team will be happy to answer them. With over 70 years of experience developing automated solutions for life science labs, we’ve earned a reputation for quality, durability, and trust.
Contact us today for more information!