We present the answers to 3 common questions related to tacky/sticky mats:
What is the ideal placement for a tacky/sticky mat?
Tacky/sticky mats should be placed on the outside of the cleanroom. Entry ways, gowning and buffers areas are ideal. Place it in a location where several steps can be made on the mat before opening the door (see figure 1).
What cleanroom class requires the use of tacky/sticky mats?
There are no specific requirements for the use of tacky mats. However, using tacky/sticky mats helps maintain your controlled environment so they should be used upon entry into ALL controlled environments. Using white tacky mats for cleaner environments can help identify when the mat needs to be changed as opposed to a darker color such as blue.
Are tacky mats a requirement for meeting usp797 and 800?
Tacky mat use is not specifically identified as a requirement to maintain usp797 and usp800 compliance. However, tacky / sticky mats are recommended for use upon entry of ALL clean environments.
The following are cleanroom class requirements for sterile and non-sterile compounding requirements (meeting usp797 and 800).
Nonsterile compounding does not require an ISO-classified environment but is to be performed in a C-PEC that provides personnel and environmental protection (i.e., Class I BSC or CVE).
Sterile HD compounding is to be performed in an ISO Class 5 C-PEC. The C-PEC is to be placed in an ISO Class 7 buffer area that is physically separated (i.e., a different room from other preparation areas).
