Aseptic Techniques and Technicians



Aseptic techniques aim at keeping the concerned area free of microorganisms that cause the contamination etc. People are the greatest source of contamination and at the same time, people are needed to carry out processes. Aseptic technician's job is to help achieve desired levels of sterilization in the environment where processes are being carried out and monitor contamination levels.

Use of barriers between people and processes, clean rooms, sterile gloves and such practices help eliminate or minimize levels of possible contamination. The aseptic technician has to be familiar with the practices adopted and must have the training to understand the issues involved.

In pharmaceutical production, aseptic techniques involve mechanical aspects such as ensuring that the equipment, clean rooms and utilities are operated and maintained in a way that lead to an aseptic environment in production areas. This typically requires a mechanical aptitude, and engineers with relevant experience are considered for aseptic technician jobs.

In addition to aseptic practices and industry standards, the aseptic technician will also have to be familiar with applicable regulations so that the person can oversee compliance with these.

Who Needs Aseptic Technicians?

1. Hospitals need aseptic technicians to establish and oversee practices that prevent sepsis problems in general and in surgery rooms in particular.

2. The food industry needs aseptic technicians to ensure that the production processes will result in preventing spoilage of products before their expiry dates.

3. Pharmaceutical companies need aseptic technicians to oversee production practices and ensure that the products are manufactured in a manner that complies with applicable regulations and industry standards

4. Medical device and hospital supplies manufacturers also need aseptic technicians to ensure that their products meet aseptic considerations

Other businesses can also benefit from the expertise of aseptic technicians, though they might not employ them. Clinical laboratories, nursing homes and tetra pack manufacturers, for example, could do with asepsis related advice and support.

How Does the Aseptic Technician Work?

The specifications of the aseptic technician job will vary from industry to industry, and to a lesser extent, even from establishment to establishment. The following specifications by a chemotherapy services establishment can give you an idea of the work involved:

The aseptic technician will report to the Aseptic Services Manager and will work closely with clinical services, IV and day care teams.

The aseptic technician job involves:

1. Supporting the daily management of the chemotherapy unit and aseptic services unit,

2. Helping with creating and maintaining a quality management system for the aseptic unit,

3. Providing pharmacy input to the management of day care patient-centered chemotherapy service and

4. Contributing to the provision of clinical pharmacy services and dispensary.

The aseptic technician has to help establish and maintain good practices with regards to processes and/or internal conditions leading to an aseptic environment.