Cleanrooms require that contaminants in the air are highly controlled in order to meet specific standards (click here to learn more). Without strict monitoring, contaminants can destroy cleanroom processes and equipment in specialized environments. Cleanrooms are highly regulated because they need to be, and there are proper procedures for entering and exiting clean rooms in order for cleanrooms to meet standards. Introducing contaminants to the cleanroom could be detrimental, so it’s best to follow correct procedures.
Cleanroom Entrance Procedures
The point of cleanrooms is to prevent contaminated air from outside the room from entering the cleanroom, and keep the clean air inside the room. This is done using positive pressure ensuring that the air flows from the cleanest space to the dirtiest. Some cleanrooms have multi-chambered rooms with different ISO cleanliness standards in each room.
Preparing for the Cleanroom
Before you can enter the cleanroom, cleaning staff performs the following to ensure that additional debris doesn’t enter along with the staff.
- Wipe feet and cover them with approved booties
- Remove excess layers
- Remove make-up
- Staff should avoid perfume, hairspray, lotion, and nail polish that could bring extra contaminates into the room
- Spit out gum
- Tie hair back
- Wash and dry your hands
Changing for the Cleanroom
As you put on the gown over your clothes, move slowly within the cleanroom so you don’t stir up air. Microscopic materials get circulated by movement. Typically personal protective equipment (PPE) is put on from top to bottom, which allows debris to fall from the head to the ground. Here’s a typical order:
- Hairnets and facemasks
- Head cover
- Goggles
- Gowns or coveralls
- Booties
- Gloves
Staff should inspect each other’s equipment for any rips or tears. Try to touch masks and head covers from the inside. Any hair and facial hair should be tucked in as part of donning it. It’s also important that the gown or coveralls fit properly. Look for any gaps because there shouldn’t be any. Finally, make sure you sanitize your hands before putting on gloves.
Cleanroom Exit Procedures
Once you’re ready to exit the cleanroom, move slowly again so you don’t stir up the air. You’ll remove your protective equipment in the reverse order, so you’ll start with the feet and remove your facemask and hairnets last. Here’s the typical order:
- Gloves
- Booties
- Gowns or coveralls
- Goggles
- Head cover
- Hairnets and facemasks
Importance of Cleanroom Procedures
Even the smallest debris particles can be detrimental to cleanroom. ISO standards are strict so changes in airflow patterns, air pressure, temperature, and humidity can change particle levels. Particle levels can disrupt the facility and shut down manufacturing.
Our team at JoncoWest is trained to properly enter and exit your cleanrooms, and they understand the importance of keeping debris out of the cleanroom. If you’re in need of help with your facility, please reach out for a free quote for our TrueClean service.
