Understanding NSF for Medical Storage
There are many options when it comes to storage in the healthcare industry. However, when it comes to storing and transporting medical supplies and equipment approved by the NSF, there are far fewer options.
Therefore, this article will explain the importance of understanding NSF standards and how you can meet these standards when storing medical supplies and equipment.
What is NSF?
NSF International is the organization of public health and safety, whose mission is to protect and improve human health worldwide. Manufacturers, regulators, and consumers look to the NSF, or National Sanitation Foundation, to create public health standards and certifications which protect the world’s food, water, and consumer products.
How does NSF relate to the Medical Industry?
The mention of NSF often leads individuals to think of Food Safety and Quality, but their health and safety standards run across multiple industries, including medical.
The medical industry is held to the highest of standards for sanitation to ensure safety and cleanliness. Medical equipment must be sterilized and stored properly to guarantee a clean and safe environment for medical practices. What you use to store medical equipment and supplies need to meet NSF Standards to protect the spreading of various diseases and illnesses, among other things.
Products bearing the NSF International seal of approval is crucial. Be sure your storage unit carries this emblem or has been tested to meet requirements.
What types of storage equipment meets NSF standards?
Wire Shelving
Wire shelving is an excellent solution for healthcare facilities including doctors’ offices, physical therapy facilities and the like. This type of storage receives high honors in the medical industry because of the open concept designs. Unlike enclosed shelving, which tends to harness germs and disease, wire shelving promotes air circulation and collects little to no dust.
The radiant, polished chrome plated finish provides durability and strength, while the shelves allow you to maximize your storage space. Plus wire shelving storage even offers a wide variety of size options and accessories to provide you with the exact dimensions you need for each space.
Wire Utility Carts
If you are looking for something with more mobility, wire utility carts are also a great option. These utility carts are perfect for transporting equipment, medical files, machinery, charts and more.
These mobile shelves can vary in weight capacity and number of shelves based on your needs. And again, with some accessories to help you customize your utility cart, these utility carts make ideal storage options for home health aides and practitioners who rely on mobility.
Additional Medical Storage Accessories
Denier Coated Vinyl Covers
These are a must-have accessory for medical supply storage. When purchasing, look for covers made of 400 Denier Nylon for extra durability. Denier covers are made for wire shelving units and protect the items on the shelves from dust and other elements. They are water resistant and provide thorough coverage. Depending on preference, you can find them with either zipper or Velcro closures.
Plastic Bins
Plastic bins are an optional accessory, but relatively low cost, so it is worth the investment for your organizational needs. Bins will accommodate your medical supplies and keep them organized and easily accessible. They come in a variety of colors and sizes, so you have plenty of bin options. Wire shelving and plastic bins are a great combination for EMS and Fire Stations too.
Conclusion
Wire shelving units with the NSF International seal have been the viable choice in the medical supply and storage fields. If you are working on a budget and need to maximize the space you have for storage, then wire shelving and utility carts are your answer. With the ability to add-on from starter shelving units as your storage needs arise these are smart choices.
Remember, providing sterilized items such as gowns, towels, hospital socks, and the likes demand your storage to meet the appropriate NSF standards.