CASP MicroSlide Hygiene Monitor Kit

This kit enables convenient monitoring of Total Viable Counts (TVCs) of bacteria together with Coliform & Enterobacteriacae with results available in around 48 hours. Firstly establish a test regime. After a routine clean and mid week are ideal times because this will help establish how contamination patterns behave and develop enabling remedial action and cleaning reviews. In the sensory room typical tests should be carried out on soft play, bubble column outer surfaces and especially any items that may make aural contact and could pose a cross infection risk, 2-3 points will give an initial overview. These should be entered on the monitor log sheet and then testing can begin.

1/ Plug in the Incubator preferably still located in the kit box. Switch on (red switch lit) and leave for approximately 30 minutes.
2/ When you have decided on the test points and time e.g. after cleaners or midweek through sessions, take samples as follows:

Hold the paddle top and gently twist and pull the tube free from paddle. Take care not to touch the media-gel.

Gently press the alternate sides of the slide against the test surface for 2-3 seconds, the hinge lets the paddle bend for ease of testing

Replace the paddle into tube and slot into the Incubator for 48 hours. You may incubate 1 or 2 slides at any 1 time

On the buff colour agar, Total counts (TVCs) grow as red dots. Iin an ideal situation you would have no growth or perhaps 1 or 2 as a maximum. See the Low slide. If you have medium upwards, then an immediate review of cleaning practice should be implemented

On the red agar, Coliform show as bright purple circular growths and Enterobacteriacae as buff circular colonies. Again in an ideal situation you should have no growth at all. Any other result requires attention.

Contaminated slides are a hazard – If possible, dispose of in clinical waste or mix 1 disposal tablet with 1 pint of warm water in a bucket and carefully open and submerge tube & paddle overnight before disposal in dustbin, 2 slides per mix is ideal. Re-order extra slides & tablets as part number HMC – TMS12 for further 30 slides & 15 tablets

What does it all mean?

– TVCs are a good general overview of hygiene standards. To identify individual colonies takes a professional Microbiologist but it is generally accepted that the lower the TVC the lower the contamination overall.
- Coliform & Enterobacteriacae are present in body fluids and excretion. Obviously this is a contamination risk and any presence on communal items is not desirable – these may go on to develop into E.coli.

Remember, the majority of anti-bacterial cleaners and wipes will easily prevent infection risk and make the sensory environment safe for all users.

Manufactured in the UK by CASP Products Limited.