# 10 Essential Tips for Effective Use of Sticky Mats in Clean Rooms
Clean rooms require impeccable hygiene standards to maintain sterility and prevent contamination. One of the simplest yet most effective tools in achieving this is the sticky mat. Here are 10 critical tips for proper usage of sticky mats to help prevent dirt and contaminants in clean rooms.
## 1. Place the Mat in Front of the Clean Room Door
To effectively trap dirt and dust, position the sticky mat outside the clean room door. This ensures that contaminants are captured before anyone steps inside the sterile environment.
## 2. Have a Long Enough Mat
Size matters when it comes to sticky mats. Ensure that the mat is long enough for a person to take two to three steps on it, allowing both feet to make contact. This maximizes dirt and dust removal.
## 3. Reposition the Mat
If you’re using a doormat-sized sticky mat, it’s crucial to place it vertically in the path of traffic. This way, both feet will step on it, ensuring optimal performance in trapping contaminants.
## 4. Clean the Floor Before Installation
Before placing the sticky mat, clean the floor adequately. Use a mixture of 70% Isopropyl Alcohol (IPA) and 30% water to prepare the surface. This ensures that the mat adheres properly and provides reliable performance.
## 5. Remove the Top Sheet Carefully
When it’s time to replace the top sheet of the sticky mat, peel it off slowly by pulling the tab. This careful removal helps avoid disturbing dust and particulates, maintaining the cleanliness of the area.
## 6. Install the Mat Properly
Ensure that the sticky mat is firmly in place. Use a water-based high-tack adhesive to secure it effectively. Proper installation is critical for the mat to function correctly and stay in position.
## 7. Use Sticky Mats in Various Areas
Don’t limit the usage of sticky mats to just the clean room door. Place them in front of staging areas, gowning areas, and hallways to capture contaminants from multiple sources, enhancing overall cleanliness.
## 8. Replace the Mat Regularly
Sticky mats come with numbered layers to help you track usage. Regularly check these layers and replace them as needed to ensure they continue to capture dirt and dust effectively.
## 9. Maintain Cleanliness
Regular maintenance is key to a clean environment. Make it a routine to clean both the floor and the sticky mat itself. This prevents the buildup of contaminants and ensures that the mat remains effective.
## 10. Choose the Right Size
Selecting the correct size for your sticky mat is essential. It should be wide enough to accommodate the volume of traffic entering the clean room. A well-sized mat ensures better coverage and contaminant capture.
By following these 10 tips, you can ensure that sticky mats are used effectively to maintain a clean and sterile environment in your clean rooms. Proper usage and maintenance of sticky mats play a crucial role in contamination control, contributing to the overall hygiene and effectiveness of your clean room operations.
