Vernacare claims to be ‘setting new standards in infection prevention’ with its new Vortex+ disposal unit, which uses ‘touchless’ technology to ensure that disposal of patient waste from toileting and washing is entirely hands-free.
Opening and closing is via a foot sensor, eliminating hand movement or contact, and reducing the risk of cross-infection when disposing of fibre-moulded bedpans, urinals, and other products containing human waste.
The new technology can be ‘auto-start’ enabled, so that when the lid closes, the machine starts automatically without having to press a start button. ‘Auto-start’ also prevents multiple waste containers ‘stacking up’ in the machine, eliminating overloading, and ensuring effective flow of disintegrated waste particles through the drains.
Emma Sheldon, Vernacare’s group marketing director, said: “The automatic start upgrade is particularly useful in older installations – helping to keep the drains clear by reducing the pulp-to-water ratio.”
The new Vortex+ retains the Vortex’s original closed-drum system. With its sealed, water-filled hopper and ‘unique’ twin-blade design, the machine ensures waste products are broken down into a fine slurry. Vernacare added: “Independent tests prove the Vortex system discharges with a velocity nearly four times that of alternative machines, and that the solids content is substantially lower and less variable. This helps to ensure free-flowing drains.”
The new model retains original Vortex features, including an integrated automatic anti-bacterial deodoriser which cleans and disinfects inside the machine at the end of each cycle. A self-diagnosing display panel, together with manual emptying override, help to simplify maintenance.
