How can you save money on cleanroom supplies?

To effectively manage expenses related to cleanroom supplies, let’s review some popular strategies that you can implement:

1) Optimizing Usage:

• Proper Storage: Ensure supplies are stored appropriately to avoid damage and contamination. Bottled disinfectants and IPA along with presaturated wipers should be stored under conditions different from dry wipes, swabs, or mops?
• Just-in-Time Ordering: Consider the timing of your order and receipt of supplies. Order more frequently to prevent overstock, reduce waste, and avoid stockouts.
• Monitor Consumption: It’s essential to track supply usage to pinpoint areas for reductions. Be sure to seek user or operator input whenever possible.

2) Cleaning Practices:

• Proper Cleaning Techniques: Ensure your staff is trained in effective cleaning methods to reduce the excessive use of supplies or cleaning solutions.
• Reusable Materials: Consider extending the product’s life by reusing mops, wipes, and containers where appropriate. Reusing materials from the cleanroom to less controlled areas in your facility is a good practice.
• Targeted Cleaning: Where possible, focus cleaning efforts on high-risk areas rather than performing unnecessary full-room sanitizations. To reduce supply count, avoid using expensive, high-risk area products in less controlled environments.

3) Equipment Maintenance

• Regular Filter Checks: Inspect and replace HEPA filters regularly to ensure optimal air quality in the cleanroom. The frequency of cleaning will increase as the air quality decreases.
• Preventative Maintenance:  Scheduling routine maintenance for cleanroom equipment is essential to avoid downtime and unnecessary replacements.
• Proper Monitoring: Review the monitoring plan and performance data to manage risk assessments related to cleanroom supplies.

4) Staff Training

• Cleanroom Protocols: Ensure all personnel are well-informed about proper procedures and how to use cleaning supplies to minimize contamination risks.
• Waste Reduction: Educate employees on effective strategies to reduce waste during cleanroom operations and work together to find optimal solutions.
• New Cleanroom Products:  Seek experienced personnel feedback before implementing a new or replacement product. Always be sure to communicate and consult on an implementation plan.

5) Supplier Optimization:

• Compare Prices: Research different vendors and compare prices to secure the best deals. Most companies offer online pricing on their website.
• Distribution Partners: Leverage your purchasing power to negotiate bulk discounts or set up blanket orders with suppliers. Compare the overall value that they can provide to your organization.
• Consider Alternatives: Investigate using other compliant brands or variations of cost-effective products. Consult with the manufacturer or a contamination control specialist for solutions.

Other Important Considerations:

• Compliance: Maintaining cleanroom standards and regulations is essential when implementing cost-saving measures.  Communicate with your quality team on any changes to your contamination control strategy and related supplies.
• Quality Impact: Avoid compromising product quality by opting for inferior cleaning supplies or reducing cleaning frequency. Do not turn a cost-saving product into a downtime nightmare.
• Cleanroom Design: Assess the cleanroom layout, operator behavior, and airflow for potential optimizations to improve efficiency and decrease the need for increased usage or cleaning frequency.

You and your operations team have likely implemented many of these strategies. These tips are a friendly reminder that adopting these practices can lead to significant cost savings while maintaining the essential standards of cleanroom environments. 

Have questions?

Reach out to one of our Berkshire experts.

Find your Expert!