3M launches new Clean-Trace hygiene management system

3M has announced the launch of a new hygiene management system for hospitals that is designed to offer a more comprehensive means of infection prevention.

The new Clean-Trace system functions by detecting adenosine triphosphate, a substance which is common to all living cells and can therefore be found on any contaminated surface.

Samples are analysed via the 3M Clean-Trace ATP Surface Test, which emits light proportionate to the level of contamination, with results analysed using the accompanying Clean-Trace NGi Luminometer and online software.

This will help hospitals to eliminate potentially harmful bacteria and organic residues that cannot be seen with the naked eye but nevertheless pose a patient safety hazard.

Debra Rectenwald, 3M's infection prevention division president and general manager, said: "The Clean-Trace System is a game changer for our healthcare facility partners, who share our mission of reducing healthcare-associated infections."

Last month, the 3M group reported its first-quarter financial results, with sales rising to a record level thanks in part to the strong performance of its healthcare division.