Detailed job description and main responsibilities

To undertake an intensive 12 month supported training programme within the Sterile Services Decontamination unit and achieve an appropriate level of competency and understanding of decontamination sciences. Once completed and signed off by either the Senior Technical Compliance Officer, or Operational Manager the individual will progress from the bottom of the pay scale to the top.

To be able to clearly demonstrate appropriate knowledge, dexterity and accuracy in decontaminating high value and complex reusable medical devices which includes dismantling, oiling and reassembling; cleanliness checking, functionality of equipment; packing and sterilisation before distribution to customers in accordance with Quality Management systems, health and safety and relevant legislation

Undertake on-going development training as required, including annual competency assessments to maintain technical knowledge and skills in-line with reusable medical device and legislative changes

Collection of soiled items from service users and the dispatch and transportation of sterile products to the required destination ensuring correct delivery of requested items.

To carry out the receipt, disassembly, cleaning, reassembly, packing and sterilisation of reusable medical devices

Record all tasks using the departments T-DOC Track & Trace System

During the disassembly process identify any defects with the instrument set, problem solve and escalate where appropriate to the relevant Team Leader

Receiving equipment for processing. Certify to this effect on check sheets and to the appropriate Policy

To identify and follow the procedure for instruments in need of repair, including completion of relevant paperwork

Working alongside the Technicians to reassemble a broad range of reusable medical devices with complex speciality demands, function checking where appropriate including lubrication and testing of power tools

The operation of washer disinfectors/sterilisers plus the maintenance of production/test records for the washer disinfectors/sterilisers and other equipment records necessary for the processing of surgical instruments and equipment

Maintain the required cleanliness of workstations, sinks, trolleys and other equipment To report any difficulties and infringements with machinery as they arise and escalate to the a Technician or Team Leader

To report any accidents to the Team Leader or Senior Technical and Compliance Officer

Ability to meet the demands of customers and key performance indicators whilst consistently achieving high quality standards which will be measured by non-conformance reports

In conjunction with a Technician or Team Leader to operate decontamination equipment and carry out routine tests in accordance with the Planned Preventative Maintenance Schedule, Quality Standards and Guidance

Replenish raw materials to all areas and inform Team Leaders of any raw material shortages and ensure stock is rotated

Ability to work flexibly to meet the demand of customers and respond to any other requests made by the senior management team.

When fully trained to be part of the buddy programme to support the training of all new Technician, sharing best practise, knowledge and experience of the role requirements.

May be required to work unsocial hours

Required to work in noisy environments with fluctuating temperatures

Could be required to work flexible hours including overtime, weekends and alternative shift patterns as the activity demands

Ability to maintain high levels of concentration, throughout all processes, to maintain quality and fit for purpose assessment on a daily basis

Communication

The Technician will be required to communicate with colleagues at all levels in a concise and appropriate manner

The Technician will be required to deal with telephone enquiries as necessary in a concise and appropriate manner

The Technician will need to ensure verbal and written communication is maintained within the department such as quality system documents

Demonstrate a courteous and helpful approach to visitors and colleagues

Required to report untoward incidents and relevant information to a Technician or Team Leader immediately

Workplace and Environmental Factors

Physical - Prolonged periods of standing/walking, pushing/pulling and manoeuvring heavy trolleys and lifting instrument sets and containers of various weights of up to 25kg.

Emotional - Able to deal with occasional distressing circumstances when working in and around the wash area.

Mental - Prolonged periods of intense concentration. Able to multi task due to unpredictable workloads i.e. equipment failure sets required on a quick turnaround and medical emergencies such as trauma or major incident.

Working Conditions - Artificial atmosphere including positive pressure and air conditioning causing temperature variations within the department. No windows/no natural light Awareness of COSHH and RIDDOR due to hazardous chemicals and chemical/clinical waste products Risk of sharps injury from manual wash of instruments/blades/needles Exposure to blood, bone, urine, faeces, grated bone and body tissue