COVID CCB Provisional Hospital

Solution

The switch to competitor pulp overlooked one key factor; the quality of pulp. The low-quality pulp had a negative impact on infection control, resources, and the cost of maintenance staff.

The replacement of Vernacare pulp had a widespread ripple effect across the facility and led to an increase in:

• Leakages and the spread of infection
• Pulp usage and procurement costs
• Service call-outs and maintenance costs

The number and frequency of call outs caused by competitor pulp created a constant problem from within two months of using competitor pulp. The second increase in call-outs fell between December and March, which demonstrates a consistent deterioration in the effectiveness of the drains at CCB Provisional Hospital.

After reviewing the data submitted, along with photographic evidence, the increase in macerator breakdown and blocked drains was attributed to the use of low-quality competitor pulp. Due to the consistent issues caused by the competitor's pulp, the COVID CCB Provisional Hospital is now reverting to Vernacare pulp despite still being in possession of volumes of competitor stock.

Why Vernacare Pulp is Superior

With an illustrious history spanning 60 years, Vernacare is proud to present our market-leading medical pulp range. Our pulp products carry the globally recognized Kitemark stamp in recognition of complying with BSI PAS 029 and BS EN ISO 14001:2015.

Built up of over-issued newspapers, our pulp resembles the structure of the fibers found in tissue paper which reduces the chance of drain blockages whereas competitors have been known to use cardboard. The longer fibres found in cardboard are harder to breakdown in a macerator and can lead to large pieces of pulp blocking hospital drainage systems.

Vernacare pulp on the other hand is certified to EDANA GD4 flushability standards, with 100% of particles breaking down to <1mm in sewer system.

As the largest manufacturer of medical-grade pulp in the world, we strive to lead by example. By re-purposing over-issued newspapers, Vernacare simultaneously prevents the spread of infection while also contributing to our sustainability credentials. In addition, no bleach or dye is used within Vernacare's unique production process making the entire portfolio of pulp products 100% biodegradable.

Vernacare's range of medical pulp is subject to a stringent six-stage quality test protocol:

• Visual inspection
• Product stacking
• Fluid retention
• Product weight
• Moisture content

Maceration products conform to Medical Device Directive 93/42/ EEC / Class 1 (non-sterile) Annex I and are CE marked.

Summary

Vernacare's superiority is spotlighted by the competitors inadequate standard of pulp. Where one Vernacare product will suffice, it can take the stacking of up to four times the amount of competitor pulp to prevent leakages. An increase in pulp consumption, means an increase in macerator cycles which reduces the lifetime and efficiency of your macerator as well as increasing your water and electricity consumption/cost. To conclude, low quality pulp is detrimental to your macerator, facility and ability to prevent the spread of infection.