Is it allowed that the CSSD storage room for sterile products is connected to the OR storage room for sterile products, for instance by means of an elevator? When there is an elevator, is it permitted only for materials, or also for the people who work in this area?

Chris Jehoul
Ziekenhuis Oost-Limburg

In my opinion it must be OK if the storage rooms are connected, provided the same hygenic rules, concerning for example clothes and restricted area, apply for both CSSD and OR. The elevator should also be a restricted area, i.e. used only for transport of sterile goods and personel from CSSD and OR.

Gunilla Prejer

Dear,

Regarding the Sterile Storage room question, from a design point of view there is no problem with connecting the CSSD storage area with that of the OR's, provided that the following conditions are satisfied:

1. Connection is only a door.
2. CSSD's storage area is physically separated from the Preparation and Packing area.
3. No personnel use the connection to circulate between O.R.department and CSSD.

Needless to say different countries and healthcare facilities have their own preferences and regulations in this regards. Therefore, it is always recommended to consult with the party in question before a recommendation is made.

Best regards,
Christine Zeiss
STERIS limited
Healthcare Division
The Stable Block
Cornbury Park, Charlbury,
Oxfordshire, OX7 3 EH
tel: 01608 811822
fax: 01608 811854