How to Prevent Computers from Becoming a Contaminant in Food Manufacturing
Contamination is a large threat to any manufacturing facility, which is why extreme measures are being taken to ‘germ-proof’ the production line. If contamination occurs on the food processing floor, major issues can result. A full-blown contamination could lead to a complete shutdown in operations, which would mean huge financial losses. The financial losses would be in terms of food wastage, a standstill in production, and idle staff. There would also be a visit from your local health inspector.
Food Contamination by Computer
Computers are being integrated more and more across facilities handling food, which means the transfer of germs between computer and food is a major problem. Exposed computer systems alone are prone to dust. Computers used in a food environment on a daily basis mean a high-risk of food residue accumulating.
Due to contamination by computers, there is a need to stop the problem at the source. Computers could be taken apart to ensure that any dust or filth is cleaned out, but that is not likely to happen. A rigorous cleaning process being carried out every night would be good, but it will likely not be well-received.
Instead, you can opt to house critical computers in a food grade (316), stainless steel environmental enclosure. These enclosures are built to prevent contamination from computers in food environments. The computer cannot get dust and food residue when in an enclosure.
The antibacterial properties of the food grade stainless steel gives the enclosures a natural defense against the build-up of food residue and germs. This stainless steel also prevents the transfer of bacteria from computer, to hands, to food. This ultimately prevents widespread contamination and the shutdown of production.
Enclosure units are also very low-maintenance and can be cleaned with chemicals to prevent the spread of bacteria without any risk of corrosion. The waterproof properties of stainless steel enclosures serve to benefit food manufacturing facilities that have jet wash procedures in place. Being able to jet wash computers in food plants means a thorough cleaning at the end of the work day.
The enclosures are also designed to keep computers operating in various conditions, such as condensation. Condensation can cause damage to electronics, and it also carries bacteria. Bacteria can settle on computers and lead to germ transfer from computer to food.
The added value of using computer enclosures in food manufacturing
Preventing food contamination caused by germs transferring from computer to food is great, but the real value of adding computer enclosures to the food production floor is that they stop food debris and dust getting in. This prevents an accumulation of grease, grime, and dust, which can ruin computer systems.
The financial implications and the impact on your business reputation as a whole can affect your food processing operation if a computer glitch brings your entire production process to a halt.
Computer enclosures bring long-term stability to your computer stations. They prevent computers from becoming a potential health hazard while also stopping them from ending up in the ‘computer graveyard’.
Source: foodprocessing.com
