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Advancing Enclosure Decontamination with SteraMist iHP Technology

Enclosure sterilization has been saturated by traditional methods like Ethylene Oxide (EtO), chlorine dioxide, and high-concentration vaporized hydrogen, but they come with their own set of challenges. EtO regulations have been at a crossroads due to their carcinogen nature and safety issues, while vaporized hydrogen peroxide has issues with cycle times and is damaging to sensitive equipment. The growing need for cell and gene therapies and 503A and 503B compounding pharmacies demands more robust decontamination for enclosures. SteraMist iHP technology is emerging as a preferred enclosure decontamination alternative to EtO, chlorine dioxide, and high-concentration vaporized hydrogen peroxide.  

Aseptic Enclosure Decontamination

In the pharmaceutical sector, advanced containment solutions such as isolators and Restricted Access Barrier Systems (RABS) are essential for upholding sterile environments and guaranteeing high-quality products, especially with the rising need for cell and gene therapies and other specialized, small-batch processes. These sophisticated systems provide far greater protection against contamination than conventional cleanrooms, significantly lowering risks and ensuring the integrity of sterile products. 

Types of Aseptic Enclosures 

• Isolators: Fully sealed units that sustain a controlled environment, typically equipped with automated decontamination processes.
• Biosafety Cabinets (BSC): Enclosed, ventilated workspaces for handling infectious agents or biological materials.
• RABS: A range of containment systems featuring solid wall structures, optional glove port access, unidirectional airflow, and compliance with ISO Class 5 standards. 
• Fume Hoods: Ventilated enclosures that remove hazardous chemical vapors, gases, or dust. Used for experiments involving volatile substances. 
• Glove Boxes: Sealed enclosures with gloves for handling hazardous, sensitive, or air-reactive materials in a controlled atmosphere.
• Animal Containment Enclosures: Specialized units for housing or experimenting with animals, ensuring biosafety and pathogen containment. 

Pharmaceutical and enclosure production is governed by rigorous regulatory frameworks that prioritize sterility assurance, worker safety, and environmental protection. As SteraMist continues to be at the forefront of enclosure sterilization, it has introduced cutting-edge solutions: the SteraMist Integration System (SIS) and the SteraMist Standalone system with qualifications that meet strict standards. 

Seamless Integration for Optimal Results: SteraMist Integrated System (SIS)

SteraMist iHP offers a seamless integration into enclosures, due to collaborations with well-known enclosure manufacturers specializing in laboratory and medical equipment: SteraMist Integrated System. This integration ensures that decontamination is not an afterthought but a built-in feature, optimizing both efficiency and safety. By working directly with these manufacturers, SteraMist ensures that iHP technology is perfectly tailored to fit the specific dimensions and requirements of various enclosures, providing a comprehensive, turnkey, and reliable decontamination solution. This collaborative approach also allows for the customization of iHP systems to meet the unique needs of different laboratory and medical settings, ensuring that the decontamination process is as efficient and effective as possible. 

Standalone System for Versatile Use: SteraMist Standalone

For situations where integrated systems aren’t feasible, SteraMist also offers a mobile system: SteraMist Standalone. This system is perfect for decontaminating existing enclosures and fogging small- to mid-sized spaces. It provides the flexibility needed to address various decontamination needs within a facility. The standalone system is designed for easy transport and setup, allowing for quick and efficient decontamination of different areas as needed. The standalone system is particularly useful for facilities that need to decontaminate a variety of spaces or equipment, as it can be easily moved from one location to another.  

SteraMist iHP technology offers a powerful and versatile solution for enclosure sterilization in laboratory and medical settings. Whether a turnkey enclosure or a standalone system, iHP provides an effective and efficient way to maintain a sterile environment. The adoption of SteraMist iHP can lead to improved workflows, reduced costs, and enhanced safety for personnel, ultimately contributing to better outcomes in critical applications.