Comparison of microbiological contents of compressed air in two Danish hospitals. Effect of oil and water reduction in air-generating units.
In a comparative study microbiological contamination of compressed air for medical use produced in oil-lubricated and oil-free compressors was investigated. Significantly lower levels of bacterial contamination were observed in the air produced by oil-free compressors; but if the air is transported to operating rooms and intensive care units through extensive pipeline systems previously contaminated by oil-lubricated compressors, the bacterial count at peripheral air outlets remains unchanged.
D000391:Air Microbiology; D003718:Denmark; D004865:Equipment and Supplies, Hospital / Q000592:standards*; D009821:Oils; D012121:Respiration, Artificial; D014867:Water
D009821:Oils; D014867:Water