BCS Testing: Medical Device Testing & Calibration - Blog by Ludmila

Navigating challenges and ensuring quality: A day in the life of BCS Testing technician, Ryan

Tue, 27 Feb 2024 11:39:02 +1100

In the vast expanse of Australia, Ryan, a dedicated technician at BCS Testing, embarks on a journey that goes beyond the ordinary. From the buzzing cities to the remote outback, his mission is to ensure the reliability of medical devices through meticulous testing and tagging. A typical day for Ryan involves careful preparation, rigorous testing procedures, and overcoming unique challenges presented by the diverse landscapes he encounters.

Behind the scenes, professionals like him play a crucial role in ensuring the reliability and safety of medical devices across diverse locations in Australia. In this interview, Ryan shares his journey into the field, the technical complexities of his work, and the unique challenges he faces on a daily basis. Check it out now:

"Can you share a bit about your background and how you became involved in the field of testing and tagging?"

Hey there, readers!

Let me take you on a quick journey from the world of culinary arts to the intriguing realm of testing and tagging. I spent 23 years as a chef, crafting dishes around the globe—from the UK and Hong Kong to Australia.

Craving new challenges, I shifted gears a few years ago, earning a diploma in Building Design and Architecture. This led me to a role at a CNC laser systems company, where I initially dove into CAD-based design. However, the allure of sitting in front of a computer all day faded fast.

Hungry for hands-on experiences, I delved into courses on testing and tagging, truck driving, forklift licenses, and more during my days off. This diverse skill set paved the way for a side gig, running a company in my spare time.

Always fueled by a passion for travel and the freedom of independent work, my path took an unexpected turn when I stumbled upon a job ad for BCS Testing. I reached out to Naomi, expressing my enthusiasm, and convinced them I was the ideal candidate.

Now, I'm navigating a career that blends travel, independent work, and continuous learning. Testing and tagging may seem worlds away from the bustling kitchens I once thrived in, but it's proof that embracing change can lead to unexpected and fulfilling opportunities. Who knew a culinary journey could pave the way for such a diverse career? The adventure continues, and I'm eager to see where it takes me next.

"What does a typical day in the life of a BCS Testing technician look like?"

Well, truth be told, there's no such thing as typical in this job. Every day throws something new my way.

For instance, if it's a day filled with physiotherapy clinics, I'm bouncing between 5-6 different places, dealing with equipment in various spots. On the flip side, if it’s a large Medical Centre, my day revolves around doctors and nurses treating patients. The challenges shift with the setting, making each day unique.

"How do you prepare for your journeys across Australia, considering the vast and varied locations you visit?"

Thankfully, BCS has me covered with the right tools for safe and convenient long-distance travel.

I keep things organized with lists detailing the equipment and essentials I need. Since my trips often span many months, thorough preparation is key. It all boils down to the timeless mantra of the 3 P's: Preparation, Preparation, Preparation. It's that simple!

"Can you walk us through the technical aspects of your testing process, especially in relation to medical devices?"

Let's dive into the technical aspects of our testing process, focusing on a specific example—the Cardioline ECG. The tests we conduct on equipment are diverse, but I'll walk you through this one.

First things first, a visual check for any cable or connection damage is standard practice. Once confirmed that everything looks good, we connect our tester to the mains power. Entering the ECG AU/NZ3551 test, we proceed with the electronic test.

After the initial test, we plug the ECG leads into our patient simulator, conducting a comprehensive ECG test that includes pulse, heart rate, and waveform analysis. Running this for a few minutes ensures the machine is in top-notch condition. If everything checks out, we input the data into our tester note, print out the tag, and affix it to the machine and its power cable.

However, if we encounter a fault, it's not a roadblock. We can either organize a replacement part or set up a service at our Sydney office. Flexibility and problem-solving are key in ensuring efficient and effective testing processes for medical devices.

"What challenges do you face while conducting tests in remote areas, and how do you overcome them?"

Conducting tests in remote areas comes with its fair share of challenges, ranging from basic hurdles like a scarcity of power points to more complex issues like limited personnel on-site. How do I tackle these challenges? Well, it all boils down to one word: flexibility.

Flexibility is my ally in adapting to the unfolding situations in these remote locations. The key is to be attuned to the people and equipment at hand. Being punctual and ensuring I have all the necessary equipment on time are the first and most straightforward steps. When it comes to remote testing, flexibility isn't just a strategy; it's a way of overcoming challenges and ensuring a smooth process.

"Could you share a memorable experience from your travels that highlights the importance of your work?"

One memorable experience from my travels this year involved fixing a treadmill in a cardiologist's office in Brisbane. The unique aspect was that I had the chance to delve into researching the product, understanding what it needed for repair—a task I surprisingly found enjoyable.

The significance? The customer didn't have to endure the wait for someone to fly in and fix their machine. Both our team and the customer appreciated the efficiency. Throughout the year, similar opportunities arose, where I could help repair small pieces of equipment, enabling customers to start using them promptly. These moments underscore the tangible impact of our work on the ground.

"How has technology evolved in your field, and how does it impact your testing methods?"

As someone relatively new to the field, I've been fortunate to work with the latest and greatest testing equipment. The tools at my disposal are top-notch, significantly easing the testing process. Looking ahead to the next year, the advancements continue.

A game-changer is the implementation of unique asset IDs with barcodes for each tested item this year. Now, when revisiting a location, I can simply scan the barcode, automatically populating all the necessary information for a new test. No need to hunt down serial numbers—it's a fantastic evolution that enhances efficiency in our testing methods.

"What measures do you take to ensure accuracy and reliability in your testing procedures?"

Ensuring accuracy and reliability in our testing procedures is paramount. Our testing equipment, being brand new and state-of-the-art this year, undergoes meticulous calibration by the manufacturer. To guarantee its accuracy daily, I kick off each morning by running a simple test on a known-to-be-perfect cable. This routine check ensures that the tester remains consistent, leaving no room for deviations in our testing procedures.

"How do you build relationships with customers, especially considering the diverse locations you serve?"

Establishing strong relationships with customers across diverse locations is a key aspect of my role. Understanding the importance of efficiency and quality, I consistently brainstorm ways to streamline interactions and make the process as smooth as possible for clients.

Being naturally friendly plays a significant role. I find it easy to connect with everyone, and my broad range of interests allows me to engage with people from various backgrounds. This approach not only fosters positive relationships but also ensures that our interactions are pleasant and effective, reflecting the commitment to both quality work and customer satisfaction.

"What motivates you the most in your role as a BCS Testing technician?"

What drives me most in my role as a BCS Testing technician is the perfect blend of travel, diverse challenges, and the profound impact of our work. The sheer variety of challenges keeps me on my toes, making every day unique and exciting.

But what truly motivates me is the realization that some communities and centers heavily rely on our services. The ability to test, repair, and calibrate medical devices ensures that even the most remote areas in Australia have access to reliable healthcare. It's a crucial service for some of our nation's most vulnerable and knowing that I play a part in making this happen is incredibly rewarding.

On a personal note, getting paid to be out there, working, and connecting with people from all walks of life adds an extra layer of awesomeness to the job. It's a motivation that goes beyond the paycheck—knowing I contribute to something meaningful and impactful keeps me eager to hit the road each day.

We hope you enjoyed getting to know a bit more about Ryan. If you prioritize safety and compliance in your practice, trust BCS Testing to be your partner in this journey. Our expert technicians are ready to bring precision and reliability to your doorstep. Schedule your Test and Tag Service today and experience the assurance that comes with a commitment to quality. Your safety is our priority, always.

Inquire Now

Elevate your compliance standards with our new AS5369 Autoclave Validation Service

Tue, 27 Feb 2024 10:12:35 +1100

What is AS5369 Autoclave Validation, and why does it matter?

AS5369 sets the gold standard for autoclave performance and annual compliance. Our validation procedures adhere meticulously to AS5369 standards, ensuring that your autoclave systems meet the highest industry benchmarks. By choosing our AS5369-compliant validation, you are investing in the highest level of precision, reliability, and compliance for your sterilization processes.

Key benefits of our AS5369 Autoclave Validation Service:

Comprehensive compliance
Our validation processes align seamlessly with AS5369 standards, giving you confidence in the regulatory compliance of your benchtop sterilizer.
Precision and accuracy
We utilize cutting-edge technology and a team of experts to conduct thorough validations, guaranteeing precision, accuracy, and repeatability.
Transparent documentation
Receive detailed, AS5369-compliant validation reports, providing a transparent record of the entire process for regulatory compliance and internal quality assurance.
One stop shop
When you add our autoclave validation to your usual test & tag service, you organize AS3551 and AS5369 compliance in 1 booking, and you don’t receive any additional travel fees!

Ready to utilize our expertise for your Autoclave performance verification?

Elevate your compliance standards and ensure the utmost reliability in your operations. To schedule your AS5369 Autoclave Validation or to learn more about our comprehensive services, please contact us at contact@bcstesting.com.au

Don't compromise on quality. Validate your autoclave with confidence!

Inquire Now

Australian Standards and Safety Compliance for Medical Clinics

Tue, 27 Feb 2024 10:12:35 +1100

In Australia we have standards and guidelines for medical clinics that should be followed to help minimize risk and increase patient safety.

The importance of patient safety

In any healthcare environment, patient safety and user safety is of the utmost importance. In a setting where the objective is to heal patients, there are hazards and risks involved that we should be aware of. In Australia we have standards and guidelines for medical clinics that should be followed to help minimize risk and increase patient safety.

Do you own a medical practice?

Are you in a practice manager's role?

Are you looking to gain practice accreditation?

Do you use electromedical equipment to treat or diagnose patients on a daily basis?

... If you answered yes to any of these, then this guide is most applicable to you, so please read on. We will cover the Australian Standards for:

Medical Device Safety - AS/NZS 3551:2012

Electrical installation safety - AS/NZS 3003:2018

Autoclave validation - AS/NZS 4815:2006

General Test & Tag - AS/NZS 3760:2022

A typical surgical patient care environment

Do these standards apply to me and my practice?

Oftentimes it can be difficult to determine which standards need to be followed in a medical setting, or if any at all. Especially when there are a broad range of patient care environments - Cardiology, Surgical, General Practice, Dental, and so on.

Typically, each type of medical practice has their own set of guidelines to follow. For example the RACGP produce the core guidelines that should be followed by all general practices, and the NSQHS standards are for all day surgery, hospital and dental clinics.

However, no matter which guidelines your clinic is directed by, each standard has the same goal: to reduce risk and increase safety for both the caregiver and the one being cared for.

From a biomedical engineers perspective, there are 3 core Australian standards we must observe to ensure we are reducing risk and increasing safety in an environment where electromedical equipment are being used. These are sometimes referred to collectively as the 'patient safety triangle':

It is important note that everyone has a part to play in reducing risk of patient harm. If you work in a patient care environment, you should be aware of all potential electrical hazards, and how to reduce the risk of patient harm.

AS/NZS 2500:2020 - Safe use of Electricity in Patient Care

First and foremost we will observe the Australian guide to patient safety in healthcare environments. This standards provides the framework in understanding the risks involved as well as procedures to increase safety.

It is important note that everyone has a part to play in reducing risk of patient harm. If you work in a patient care environment, you should be aware of all potential electrical hazards, and how to reduce the risk of patient harm. There is no annual compliance test that is needed under this standard, however it governs the next two standards which will require annual testing.

AS/NZS 3551:2012 - Safe Management of Medical Equipment

Under this standard, we will make sure that all medical devices in the clinic are safe from defects that could cause electric shock. We will also verify the correct operation of the equipment's safety functions, in the case of an electrical fault. We are also checking that the equipment are in line with defined acceptance criteria from the standard and performing to the manufacturer's specifications.

If you are opening a new practice and have purchased new capitol, you will want to make sure those have had acceptance tests to ensure they are electrically safe and performing as intended. Over time, medical equipment will degrade due to wear and tear, so it is best that the equipment is re-checked every 12 months.

AS 3003:2018 - Safe Electrical Installations

In the previous standard, we ensure safety of medical equipment. In this standard, we will ensure the power point installations are also safe. This standard outlines how the electrical wiring should be installed in the practice. These guidelines will be followed by your electrician when you decide to build or make renovations to your practice.

The installation will either be made as body-protected or cardiac-protected, depending on what kind of medical procedures take place in the rooms. The electrical installations will be made with circuit protective devices, mainly residual current devices (RCDs). In the event of an electrical fault, these RCDs should cut off the supply of electricity, protecting your equipment, and more importantly, people's lives.

You may want to reduce risk in your practice, by having your electricals commissioned upon installation and then re-validated every 12-months.

Further standards for Medical Practices

AS 4815:2006 - Validation for Steam Sterilisers

Validation is a mandatory process described by Australian standard (AS/NZS 4815:2006) that should be undertaken upon installation and then at least once every year on your autoclave. This process is a legal obligation to ensure that your autoclave is sterilising correctly and removes the risk of cross contaminant diseases being passed to your patients. To find out more, please click here .

AS 3760:2022 - Safety Tests for General Electrical Equipment

Further to the requirements of having medical equipment tested and tagged, you may want to have all the general electrical equipment tested also. Under this standard, all equipment that plugs into the wall will be safety inspected and tested. If you require to have all the electrical equipment tagged, it is practical to have it done at the same time as the testing of the medical equipment.

In Summary

There are two main ways to ensure safety in the practice:

Safe Medical Equipment - AS/NZS 3551:2012: as a baseline you should have all the medical equipment in the practice tested every 12 months.
Safe Electrical Installations - AS/NZS3003:2018: If you are testing your equipment, it also makes sense to test and verify the electrical installations of the practice.

Further to the standards for medical safety, you may be required to follow:

Autoclave Validation - AS/NZS 4815:2006: If your practice has an autoclave steam sterilizer, it must be validated and serviced every 12 months.
General Electrical Test & Tag - AS/NZS 3760:2022: You may want to have all the other electrical equipment in the practiced verified according to this standard.

If you like to book in a service with StarkMed, please call us or complete our contact form with your requirements.

Inquire Now