Ultrasonic Cleaners
OSHA intends a distinction between "droplets" and "aerosols" "Splattering of blood onto skin or mucous membranes of the face and upper respiratory tract against large droplet splattering is needed. ...glasses, goggles, face shields, and surgical masks...as appropriate to the task being performed, can provide that protection. "OpCit p.51 Pseudo-scientists put some "marker-dye" in an ultrasonic and observed the "marker dye" was aerosolized and deposited on surfaces away from the ultrasonic. They concluded that covering that ultrasonics was necessary to limit the spread for pathogens and protect the worker. Their experiment was faulty and their conclusions were false. The emphasis by OSHA is to encourage the establishment of procedures that prevent the initial problem before focusing on protection. "Paragraph (d)(2)(xi) requires that all procedures involving blood or other potentially infectious materials shall be performed in such a manner as to minimize splashing, spattering, and generation of droplets of these substances." "The hierarchy of controls provision, paragraph (d)(2)(i), of this standard requires employers to implement engineering controls and work practices prior to relying on personal protective equipment for protecting employees against exposure" OSHA |
Ultrasonic cleaners are used to dislodge fine
particles Whereas surface tension is broken and aerosolization occurs we can cover the ultrasonic though there is no reason to think it should be required. Cavitation is the term used to describe the mechanical (physical) Plain water is a poor cavitator and requires a soap solution to work. Cost-effective Alconox is the long preferred cleaner because it rinses clean without leaving a soapy residue. Tip 1: Maintain water level to within 1/2" of top rim of ultrasonics. Tip 2: Always use a basket suspending the object 1/2" or more above the
bottom. Tip 3: Ultrasonics do not sterilize or disinfect, they only remove fine particles from items being cleaned and the dirt is then suspend in the solution. Items should be rinsed and dried before packaging for sterilization. The Unimax System Used contaminated water from ultrasonics should be treated with 10% bleach and then poured into the sanitary sewer system down the toilet being careful to avoid splashing. It is a violation of OSHA regulations to dispose of untreated contaminated liquids into the sewage system. |