The category of your cleanroom will determine the specific type of cleanroom materials that can be used in its construction or within it. For instance, acceptable solvents and garment materials vary amongst the different classes of cleanroom.

There are also typical items used for day to day activities which are deemed unacceptable in cleanrooms. However, items in this category can also be found in cleanroom-approved forms. It’s therefore vital that only the cleanroom approved versions of such items are used in a cleanroom and never substituted for the regular types.

Below are items whose usage is generally prohibited for cleanroom materials applications:

Commercial vacuum cleaners or similar unapproved cleaning equipment

Grease, oils and lubricants

Wood products

Leather

Bare aluminium

Velcro

Powders

Aerosol

Cardboard

Food and drink

Gum

Makeup

Unapproved plastic

Regular writing tools, paper or notebooks

Books and book bags

Silica gel

Open cell foam materials

Unapproved tape or adhesive

Plastic bags and bubble wrap

Fortunately, many of these items are available as cleanroom-approved materials and Total Clean Air can provide them in the quantity and quality you require. This includes:

Paper, notebooks, pens and pencils

Adhesives or tape

Cleaning materials and vacuum cleaners

Wipes and detergents

Solvents

Plastic containers

Depending on the class of your cleanroom and laid down protocols, electronics such as laptops, mobile phones, and other similar equipment may not be allowed into the cleanroom.

Modular Cleanroom Benefits

Modular Construction

Quick Assembly Time

Versatility

Reconfiguration

Airflow Control

Inexpensive Modifications

Best Practices To Maintain Cleanliness Levels

To maintain cleanliness levels in a cleanroom, the following personnel behaviours are recommended:

Move around and operate within the cleanroom in slow, calm movements

Minimise the amount of talking

Avoiding smoking or being in contact with second-hand smoke prior to entering a cleanroom

Washing hands before and after entering a cleanroom

Using hairnets and beard covers whilst in the cleanroom

Putting clothes on and taking them off in the prescribed order

Ensure that cleanroom clothing fits properly before entering the secured environment

Not bringing unneeded or prohibited materials into the secure environment

Because personnel create more particles than anything else in a cleanroom, it’s crucial that proper garments are worn at all times. Adhering to this and maintaining appropriate cleanroom hygiene and behaviour will significantly contribute to cleanroom integrity.

When in doubt about the suitability of certain materials for cleanroom use, it is advised not to bring them in at all. Effective and personalised training is key to educating personnel with regards what is impermissible in a cleanroom environment. Total Clean Air can provide cleanroom training, as well as validate your controlled environment Give us a call today to get started.