### 10 Essential Tips for Proper Use of Sticky Mats in Cleanrooms
Maintaining a cleanroom or any controlled environment involves careful consideration of various factors, one of which includes the effective use of sticky mats. Also known as tacky mats, they play a crucial role in capturing contaminants before they breach the controlled space. Here are ten critical tips to ensure you are using sticky mats effectively:
#### 1. **Strategic Placement of Tacky Mats**
The location where you place your sticky mats significantly impacts their effectiveness. Ideally, position them in front of the cleanroom door to catch contaminants before they enter the clean environment. Additionally, consider using them inside the cleanroom in key areas such as gowning or staging zones to maintain sterility.
#### 2. **Optimal Mat Size**
The dimensions of the mat are vital. Your sticky mat should be wide enough to accommodate the bulk of the traffic entering the cleanroom. Furthermore, it needs to be long enough so that both feet have to step on it at least once, ensuring maximum contaminant capture.
#### 3. **Preparing the Floor**
Before laying down a new sticky mat, it is essential to clean the floor thoroughly. Use a mixture of 70% isopropyl alcohol (IPA) and 30% water to remove any old adhesive residues. This step ensures a clean surface for the new mat, which can adhere better and function optimally.
#### 4. **Removing Top Sheets Properly**
When it’s time to replace the top sheet of your sticky mat, do it with care. Pull the tab up slowly to avoid scattering dirt and dust. Rolling the old sheet into a ball can help minimize the release of airborne particulates, maintaining the cleanroom’s sterility.
#### 5. **Ideal Locations for Sticky Mats**
The effectiveness of sticky mats is highly dependent on their placement. Here are the optimal spots for them:
– **In front of the Cleanroom Door**: This primary location helps capture contaminants at the point of entry.
– **Staging Areas Inside the Cleanroom**: Use sticky mats in areas where materials and personnel are prepared.
– **Gowning Areas**: Place mats both outside and inside changing rooms to catch contaminants before and after gowning.
– **Hallways Leading to the Cleanroom**: Prevent dirt from spreading by placing mats along the corridors that lead up to the cleanroom.
By following these tips, you can maximize the efficiency of sticky mats and ensure your cleanroom remains as uncontaminated as possible. Proper use of tacky mats is a small but significant step toward maintaining a sterile environment, which is crucial for any cleanroom operation.
