High-Performance VOC Detector Measures and Maintains Air Quality Within Hospital Conception Unit

The Assisted Conception Unit at Ninewells Hospital in Dundee has purchased an Ion Science Tiger handheld volatile organic compound (VOC) detector in adherence with the Human Fertilisation and Embryology (HFEA) regulations for air quality in tissue laboratories and to ensure optimum culture conditions for embryos. This follows an independent external review that recommended the facility upgrade to a more sensitive photoionisation detector (PID) that measured VOC levels in parts per billion (ppb). 

With even low levels of VOCs potentially affecting embryo development, the Ninewells Hospital’s Assisted Conception Unit regularly monitors VOCs in its laboratories to minimise contaminants, maintain the best possible conditions and help ensure successful IVF outcomes.

In the UK, assisted reproduction is regulated and governed by the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority (HFEA). Philip Milne from the Assisted Conception Unit at Ninewells Hospital explains: “The aim of the HFEA regulation is to implement standards of air quality in laboratories where tissues are prepared for use in humans, including assisted conception facilities. Part of this is measuring and maintaining the air found in tissue laboratories with particle and microbial counts being done on a regular basis.”

The Assisted Conception Unit’s previous VOC instrument measured in parts per million (ppm) but an independent external review recommended it was replaced with a more sensitive ppb instrument like the Ion Science Tiger which is able to detect very low levels of VOCs.

Offering a robust and reliable design, the well proven Ion Science Tiger boasts a market leading measurement range of 1 ppb to 20,000 ppm. It is easy to set up and provides advanced VOC detection and software features. It also provides a response time of just two seconds and can be connected directly to a PC via the USB offering rapid data download capabilities.

Like all ion Science instruments, the Tiger incorporates the company’s latest MiniPID sensor and patented fence electrode technology for increased resistance to humidity and contamination.

Philip continued: “We needed a cost effective VOC instrument that was accurate, repeatable and user-friendly as our older one was cumbersome and difficult to use. The Ion Science Tiger, purchased from Shawcity, fitted our ergonomic requirement whilst providing an affordable and reliable replacement.

 “We have been very pleased with the Ion Science Tiger to date and would not hesitate to recommend it to other facilities,” he concluded.

More information online: https://ilmt.co/PL/G4kJ