Overview of Washer Disinfectors
Washer disinfectors play a critical role in the cleaning and disinfection of medical devices. Regular testing and validation are essential to ensure they continue to operate within required parameters and deliver consistent performance.
Our services support endoscopy and decontamination departments in maintaining compliance with HTM 01-06, providing confidence in both equipment performance and patient safety.
HTM 01-06 Compliant
Weekly to Annual Testing
Independent Validation
Clear Electronic Reporting
What we test?
We provide a structured programme of testing and validation for washer disinfectors, including:
- Safety and operational checks
- Cleaning efficacy testing
- Water quality testing
- Flow and channel performance
- Disinfection performance
Testing is carried out in line with HTM guidance and relevant standards to ensure consistent and reliable results.
Weekly testing
Weekly testing is carried out to ensure washer disinfectors continue to perform as expected between validation periods.
Tests typically include:
- Weekly safety checks
- Daily test verification
- Process challenge device (PCD) cleaning efficacy testing
- Water hardness checks across process stages
- Water conductivity (final rinse where applicable)
- Final rinse water testing (total viable count)
Quarterly and annual validation
In addition to routine testing, we provide quarterly and annual validation, which includes a more extensive set of tests to confirm full system performance.
This may include:
- Thermometric testing to verify temperature performance
- Channel patency and flow testing
- Cleaning efficacy assessment
- Disinfection performance testing
Where required, surrogate devices can be used to demonstrate disinfection efficacy under realistic conditions.
Reporting, laboratory support and integration
Samples collected during testing can be analysed in our UKAS-accredited laboratory, providing independent and reliable results, including microbiological testing such as total viable count.
All results are delivered through clear, structured electronic validation reports, making it easy to review performance, identify issues and maintain documentation for audits and inspections.
Key benefits
- Supports compliance with HTM 01-06 guidance
- Ensures equipment is operating within required parameters
- Identifies issues early before they impact performance
- Provides clear documentation for audits and inspections
- Flexible testing options, including weekly, quarterly and annual validation
- Delivered by experienced and competent personnel
Frequently Asked Questions
Servicing is a planned maintenance programme that helps keep equipment operating correctly, but it does not fully test the function of the washer disinfector or all alarms and safety systems. Validation is a more comprehensive process that confirms the equipment is operating within required standards and guidance through a series of performance, safety, and compliance tests.
Water quality directly affects cleaning and disinfection performance. Poor water quality can lead to residue, reduced effectiveness, and increased risk of contamination. Final rinse is particularly important, as it is the last important, as it is the last water to come into contact with the endoscope before patient use. Equipment such as drying and storage cabinets do not provide disinfection, making effective water quality management essential.
A failed result indicates that the washer disinfector may not be operating correctly. Further investigation, corrective action, and repeat testing are required before continued use.
Validation is typically carried out quarterly and annually, alongside routine weekly testing, in line with HTM guidance and internal protocols. Regular validation and routine testing help identify potential issues early, maintain compliance, and ensure washers disinfectors continue to perform effectively. If you are unsure about the appropriate tesing schedule for your equipment, our team can provide guidance and support.
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