Smart Storage in CSSD’s

Sterile storage isn’t just about keeping things tidy—it’s a critical factor in maintaining sterility and preventing costly errors. The layout, labelling, and organisation of your CSSD can significantly impact patient safety and workflow efficiency.

Let’s explore practical tips CSSD technicians can use to reduce contamination risk, streamline stock access, and improve traceability. We’ll also show how Emery Industries’ MediMesh and WireMax shelving systems can support these best practices.

Why Smart Storage Matters

Poorly organised sterile stock areas can lead to:

• Cross-contamination due to improper segregation
• Expired or compromised stock going unnoticed
• Wasted time locating the correct trays
• Risk of using the wrong instrument set

1. Use Open Wire Shelving for Airflow and Visibility

Sterile items need a clean, well-ventilated environment. Shelving should allow air circulation and be easy to clean. Open wire systems, like Emery Industries’ MediMesh and WireMax shelving, are ideal. These shelves reduce dust accumulation, allow airflow to reduce moisture, and offer excellent visibility of stock.

Solid shelving can trap dust and moisture—conditions that compromise sterile packaging. MediMesh’s open-wire design helps maintain the right environment for long-term sterility.

2. Label Everything Clearly

Clear labelling prevents mix-ups and supports traceability. Use:

• Colour-coded tags for tray types (orthopaedic, general, etc.)
• Expiry date markers for sterile packs
• Tray content labels that include sterilisation date, batch number, and location

3. Follow “First In, First Out” Inventory Rotation

To avoid expired packs or compromised sterility, implement a FIFO system: First In, First Out. Place newly sterilised stock behind older items so staff always reach for the earliest expiry.

Design shelving layouts so trays are easy to rotate and restock without overhandling. Adjustable shelving like WireMax allows departments to scale up or reconfigure as needs change, keeping your system flexible and compliant.

4. Keep High-Use Trays Easily Accessible

For trays used daily, store them at waist height to reduce strain and avoid drops. Rarely used sets should be higher up. This layout improves flow and reduces the risk of damaging sterile packs during access.

Conclusion

Smart storage supports safe sterility. With the right layout, labels, and shelving systems, CSSDs can reduce errors, protect stock, and work more efficiently.

Explore Emery Industries’ MediMesh shelving and WireMax shelving

A well-organised CSSD isn’t just safer—it’s smarter.

References:

• Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care. (2021). NSQHS Standards (2nd ed): Standard 3 – Preventing and Controlling Infections.
• Standards Australia. (2014). AS/NZS 4187: Reprocessing of reusable medical devices in health service organisations.
• World Health Organization. (2016). Decontamination and reprocessing of medical devices for health-care facilities.
• Safe Work Australia. (2022). Managing the Work Environment and Facilities: Code of Practice.