The IDSC Central Decontamination Branch Study Day was held at the excellent Midlands Air Ambulance Charity Headquarters – Neachley Lane, Shifnal, TF11 8UR bringing together decontamination professionals for a day of education, networking, and knowledge sharing. The event was chaired by Rob Warburton Director of Communications, who welcomed delegates and introduced a comprehensive programme of expert presentations.
The day began with Scope Devices – Anatomy & History (Olympus – Module 2), presented by Lucas Benbow, Endoscopy Support Specialist. Lucas provided an engaging overview of the history of endoscopy, explaining what endoscopes are used for and how they have evolved over time. Delegates learned that some of the earliest body cavity examinations are believed to have taken place in Pompeii around AD 46 using primitive speculums. He also highlighted several important milestones in endoscopy, including Antoine Jean Desormeaux, who coined the term endoscope in 1853 following the development of an instrument for examining the bladder, and Dr Adolf Kussmaul, who performed the first successful examination of the stomach in 1868. Lucas concluded with a detailed explanation of flexible endoscope anatomy, covering the functions of the distal tip, control body, insertion tube and endoscope plug body.
The second presentation, Water Quality (Envirogen – Module 3), was delivered by Sam Blackmore, who explained how regional variations in water quality can affect endoscope decontamination. Sam emphasised the importance of complying with the water quality requirements set out in HTM 01-06, including limits for conductivity, total viable counts (TVCs) and total organic carbon (TOC). Delegates also received an informative explanation of how water softeners and reverse osmosis (RO) systems operate and their importance in producing high-quality rinse water.
The morning continued with Chemicals Used in Endoscopy (Serchem – Module 4), presented by Dan Collins. Dan provided an excellent overview of the chemistry used within endoscopy departments, including COSHH requirements, spill management and the correct use of personal protective equipment (PPE). He also discussed the different classes of detergents and their characteristics, reminding delegates of several key principles: pre-clean endoscopes as soon as possible after use, never mix different chemistries, always follow manufacturers’ safety data sheets, and prepare fresh cleaning solutions for each endoscope.
Continuing the chemistry theme, Lee Readman from Dr. Weigert explored material compatibility, detergent performance and the properties of high-level disinfection chemicals. Lee also explained the terminology commonly associated with disinfectants, including bactericidal, virucidal and fungicidal activity, helping delegates better understand the products they use in practice.
Following the morning sessions, Zoe Fayers-Rust, Director of Science & Quality Assurance at iM-Med, delivered Automated Cleaning & Disinfection (Module 4). Zoe gave a detailed overview of automated endoscope washer-disinfectors and stressed the importance of compliance with ISO 15883-4:2018 and HTM 01-06. She guided delegates through each stage of a typical washer-disinfector cycle, highlighting critical parameters such as cleaning, disinfection holding times and the final reverse osmosis rinse.
Delegates then enjoyed a superb buffet lunch kindly provided by the Midlands Air Ambulance Charity, offering an excellent opportunity to network with colleagues, speakers and exhibitors.
The afternoon sessions began with Low Temperature Sterilisation (STERIS – Module 5), presented by Georgia Alevizopoulou, Senior Clinical & Education Manager at STERIS, who had travelled from Greece to support the event. Georgia introduced the principles of low-temperature sterilisation by discussing the four states of matter before reviewing the different technologies available, including ethylene oxide, low-temperature steam formaldehyde, and hydrogen peroxide sterilisation using both vapour and gas plasma systems. She concluded by explaining the differences between vapour and gas plasma sterilisation cycles, referring delegates to ISO 22441 for further guidance on vaporised hydrogen peroxide (VHP) sterilisation.
Basic Microbiology (Eurofins – Module 7) was presented by Ian Mein, Director at Citritek and Eurofins Healthcare. Ian delivered a comprehensive overview of microbiology, discussing bacteria, viruses, fungi and protozoa, and explaining both their importance in nature and the need to eliminate harmful microorganisms within the endoscope decontamination environment.
The final technical session, Ask Your AED, was delivered by Andy Lawton, Authorising Engineer (Decontamination). Andy provided delegates with a valuable overview of the roles and responsibilities within decontamination services and clarified many of the acronyms and professional titles commonly encountered across the sector.
To conclude the day, Sharon Fox, Director of Education, introduced the IDSC Endoscope Technical Certificate training programme, highlighting the opportunities it offers for professional development within endoscope decontamination. Simon Lambert, Director of Finance, then rounded off the event by drawing two lucky delegates who each won a complimentary place at the IDSC Congress Brighton 2026.
The study day proved to be an informative, engaging and enjoyable event held in an outstanding venue. Delegates left with valuable new knowledge, practical insights and opportunities to strengthen professional networks.
A sincere thank you goes to all the speakers, our 60 delegates, our support team Aggie Warburton, Tulin McClimon and Masa Pecek and finally our exhibitors: Olympus, Envirogen, Serchem, Dr.Weigert, iM-Med, STERIS, Eurofins, Warwick Sasco and H4 Medical whose continued support makes events such as this possible.
For more information about the Endoscope Technical Certificate and other training opportunities please visit IDSC
