Microbiology Advisory Committee (MAC)

The Microbiology Advisory Committee (MAC) is an ad-hoc group of experts reporting to the Committee on the Safety of Devices and is formed from specialist representatives from the NHS, Health Protection Agency (HPA) and academia to advise the Department of Health, through the MHRA, on disinfection and sterilization practices for medical devices applicable in and appropriate to the health service. The MAC also advises on the preparation and ratification of Departmental guidance on microbiological aspects of equipment used and intended to be used in the health service.

Please note: All correspondence must be directed through the Secretariat (Mr I Smith 020 7084 3306 e-mail Ian.Smith@mhra.gsi.gov.uk )

Publication

Sterilization, Disinfection and Cleaning: Guidance on Decontamination is a document prepared by the MAC and distributed by the MHRA. Part 1 of the manual discusses the principles of decontamination, Part 2 provides suggested protocols for various decontamination regimes. Part 3 is published in two sections (revised 2006). The first addresses the Medical Devices Directive, Standards and CE Marking. The second section provides generic advice on the decontamination of the following groups of medical devices:

  • Endoscopes
  • Dental equipment
  • Ophthalmic equipment
  • Surgical instruments
  • Ventilators
  • Miscellaneous items

 

Copies of the MAC manual can be downloaded from the publications section of this website.


Page last modified: 07 February 2008