Cattani SMART Series - Amalgam Container Management and Verification

DAILY MAINTENANCE
TO BE CARRIED OUT BY INSTRUCTED SURGERY STAFF
AMALGAM CONTAINER REPLACEMENT
NOTIFICATION & VERIFICATION
If your SMART suction system is fitted with a Hydrocyclone amalgam retention unit, alarm
messages will appear on the unit’s display to notify you of 95% and 100% amalgam levels.
When the 95% level alarm is displayed, make arrangements to have the amalgam container
replaced at an appropriate time (to do this the system will need to be turned off).
It is not necessary to empty the amalgam container immediately when the alarm indicates 95%
however, waiting until the 100% level is reached may cause interruption to your clinic.
Whilst this process can be performed by clinic staff, it is highly recommended to employ your
equipment service technician.
The amalgam container is always full of waste fluid and a varying level of amalgam waste material.
100% amalgam waste capacity of the container is approx. half the container.
The amalgam waste material settles at the bottom of the container and usually appears darker
than the waste fluid.
BEFORE replacing the container, firstly verify the 95% or 100% level alarm visually.
If this cannot be determined visually from the outside, begin the container replacement process
and check internally when the container is removed.
False alarms can occur if the daily disinfection process in ineffective. If the disinfectant is not
aspirated through the entire suction system & Hydrocyclone amalgam container, it is possible for
a dark bacterial build up to form on the inside of the container. This can block the level sensor and
trigger a false alarm. If this is occurring, check your disinfection processes and/or contact your
equipment service technician or Cattani for further advice.
In this case, the rib in the back of the container (that fits into the sensor) will need to be cleaned
with an appropriate brush. The container can then be reinstalled with a new o-ring seal as per the
container replacement procedure.
* All waste amalgam must be handled and disposed of correctly, see your practice
procedures for the disposal of hazardous waste and materials.
** If the original container is to be re-used, place any small container under the tap
and then empty into the approved waste container, do not pour down the sink. Clean the
level sensing groove of the container with a cotton bud or similar.
The above are guidelines only, if you require further assistance please contact your engineer.