Servica's sterile processing department needed to facilitate the daily handling of instrument washing racks and improve occupational safety. The custom storage solution eliminates heavy lifting, streamlines the working environment, and frees up valuable space.
Servica Oy is responsible for the sterile processing services at Kuopio University Hospital. Centralized sterile processing department is responsible for cleaning, disinfecting, and sterilizing surgical, care, and examination equipment so that it is safe to use in patient work.
In the sterile processing department, the used instruments are placed in racks for washing. The empty racks are stored in a shelf system. Previously, the sterile processing technicians had to move the racks manually, often by two people, as they can weigh up to 25 kg. The old steel shelf was too small, which meant that some of the racks ended up on the floor. This took up space in a busy access route and increased occupational safety risks: tripping, heavy lifting, and even falling racks.
The situation called for a solution that would improve work ergonomics, reduce the risk of accidents, and provide a smart way to manage the growing rack load without clogging up the already cramped space. “I set out to promote the project in order to maintain safety and avoid sick leave,” says Ella Mauranen, Service Manager for sterile processing.
There was no ready-made solution on the market, so it was clear that the rack storage had to be designed specifically for the space and needs of the sterile processing department. Servica launched a call for tenders and established the criteria. In the bidding, Makron was the only one able to offer a turnkey solution that met the requirements.
Makron surveyed the situation and designed a storage in the available space. The system consists of a shelving unit and a semi-automatic hoist for moving the racks from one level to another. The delivery included both mechanical and automation solutions from design to programming, installation, testing, and commissioning. The instrument washing rack storage is optimized to suit Servica's needs and space.
The end result was a CE-marked solution with guaranteed safety for Servica. They have already had a positive experience of the instrument washing rack storage. “We received good training and instructions. The staff find the washing rack storage easy to use,” Ella Mauranen says.
Above all, the new instrument washing rack storage system will make the day-to-day sterile processing smoother. The space is used efficiently and stays tidy. Racks that had accumulated on the floor have been removed, freeing up access space and reducing occupational safety risks. Work ergonomics have improved as sterile processing technicians no longer have to lift heavy racks. A single person can safely handle the instrument washing racks – even on weekend shifts when there are fewer resources.
Ella Mauranen thanks Makron for a smooth project. “We have been very pleased and will be happy to continue discussions about automating other functions when the time comes,” she says.
The new instrument washing rack storage supports Servica's core mission of sterile processing: to ensure efficient, safe, and reliable instrument circulation. With the racks organized and easily accessible, the staff can focus on their core task without unnecessarily moving things around. Occupational safety has improved and the use of space has become more efficient thanks to the custom solution.
Ella Mauranen
Service Manager
Servica Oy
