The Advantages of Sliding Hygienic Doors in Operating Theatres

In the high-stakes environment of operating theatres, every detail matters. The design and functionality of these spaces can have a profound impact on patient outcomes, staff efficiency, and overall safety. One often-overlooked aspect is the type of doors used. Recently, sliding doors have become a popular choice due to their numerous benefits. Here’s why hygienic GRP sliding doors are an excellent option for operating theatres.

Salford Royal operating room.

Maximising Space
Operating theatres are bustling hubs of activity, where every square foot counts. Unlike traditional hinged doors that swing open and require clear space, sliding doors move along a horizontal track. This design saves valuable floor space, allowing for better placement of equipment and easier movement for staff.

Enhancing Sterility
Sterility is crucial in operating theatres to prevent infections. Hygienic GRP Sliding doors have a smooth and seamless construction with no ledges, recesses or right angles where dust or bacteria can be trapped and grow. Some sliding doors even come with hermetic seals, ensuring an airtight closure that further minimises the risk of contamination.

Reducing Noise
The operating theatre is already a noisy place, with the constant hum of machinery and conversations among medical staff. Hygienic GRP Sliding doors provide better sound insulation, helping to create a quieter environment. Their smooth operation also means less noise when opening and closing, reducing distractions during critical moments.

Improving Traffic Flow
Efficient movement is vital in an operating theatre. Sliding operating theatre doors help facilitate smooth traffic flow by allowing easy passage between different areas, such as sterile and non-sterile zones. This reduces the risk of collisions and delays, helping to maintain a seamless workflow.

Enhancing Accessibility
Medical staff often need to move quickly and carry equipment, making ease of access crucial. Sliding operating theatre doors are user-friendly, especially when equipped with automatic sensors that open the door as someone approaches. This hands-free operation is particularly beneficial for staff wearing gloves or handling sterile instruments.

Ensuring Quick Evacuation
In emergencies, every second counts. Sliding doors can be designed to open quickly, allowing for rapid evacuation if needed. Some models also have breakaway features, ensuring they can be easily opened even during power outages or other crises.

Conclusion
Hygienic GRP sliding doors offer several key advantages for operating theatres, from maximising space and enhancing sterility to improving traffic flow and ensuring quick evacuation. When planning or renovating an operating theatre, healthcare facilities should consider these benefits to enhance both patient care and staff efficiency.

For more details, please enquire here.

Transfer Hatches/Pass Through Hatches

Pass through hatches, also known as transfer hatches, play a pivotal role in ensuring the seamless transfer of materials. Whether it’s transporting raw materials in, dispatching finished products, or facilitating the manufacturing process, these unassuming pass thru hatches are the unsung heroes of cleanroom efficiency. Their robust and durable construction ensures long-term reliability in even the most demanding environments. Moreover, they are designed to accommodate a wide range of operational requirements, making them indispensable in various industries including pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, and electronics.

A metal transfer hatch.
The primary objective of pass thru’s is to mitigate cross-contamination during material transfer, thus upholding the cleanliness of controlled areas. Dortek, a leading provider of innovative solutions, offers a range of pass through hatches equipped with either electromagnetic or mechanically interlocked doors. These advanced door mechanisms serve a dual purpose: preventing depressurisation and minimising the risk of contamination. In addition to their high functionality, these door systems are designed to be user-friendly, reducing the risk of operational errors and enhancing the overall safety protocols within cleanrooms.

What sets Dortek’s pass through hatches apart is their deliberate design. Unlike conventional sealed doors, these hatches allow a controlled flow of air from the clean side, typically maintained at a higher pressure. This constant influx of clean air effectively flushes the interior of the hatch. Importantly, the volume of air involved is so minuscule in comparison to the room’s airflows that it remains imperceptible, leaving room pressures unaffected. This careful balance helps to ensure that even the most stringent cleanroom standards are met without compromise. Additionally, the materials used in the construction of these hatches are selected for their resistance to corrosion and ease of sterilisation. The hatches have minimal visible fixings, flush designs, and excellent scratch and wear resistance.

Pass throughs silently ensure that materials move seamlessly, while cross-contamination remains a distant concern. Dortek’s innovative range of pass through hatches help improve the efficiency and reliability of cleanroom operations. These hatches are also designed with user convenience in mind, featuring easy-to-clean surfaces and straightforward maintenance procedures. Their sleek, modern design not only contributes to the aesthetic appeal of the cleanroom but also integrates seamlessly with other cleanroom infrastructure.

A metal transfer hatch with a small window at each side.
Key Features of Dortek’s Transfer/Pass Through Hatches:

• You can either have our hatches bespoke or standard sized.
• Can be lead lined to provide added security of radiation safety.
• Can be manufactured to fit bespoke sized trolleys or containers.

Dortek offer a wide range of standard sized, custom made and lead lined pass throughs. Please contact us at info@dortek.com for more information. Our team of experts are always on hand to provide consultation and support, ensuring that you find the perfect solution for your cleanroom needs.

 

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