Author: Marketing Team

Elaine Randall, Business Development Manager and Clinical Specialist at MTP Innovations, isn’t just selling a product. She’s helping her former colleagues. With a nursing career that began in 1978 and spanned nearly two decades across the NHS and private sector, Elaine brings experience, empathy, and expert knowledge to every conversation she has with healthcare teams today.

“I’ve been where they are,” Elaine says. “ICU, paediatrics, theatres – I’ve seen first-hand how demanding healthcare environments can be. That’s why I’m passionate about making things better.”

Since joining MTP Innovations six years ago, Elaine has become a vital bridge between clinical teams and safer cleaning and disinfection solutions. She speaks the same language as infection prevention nurses, understands the challenges domestic teams face, and knows the risks posed by long-accepted practices – especially the widespread use of chlorine.

“Chlorine makes you cough. It irritates mucous membranes. It fails to work effectively in the presence of organic matter,” she says. “There’s this old belief that the smell equals clean, but that’s not the case.”

As someone who’s been on both sides of the healthcare-commercial fence, Elaine sees herself as a problem-preventer, not a problem-solver.

“I’m all about solutions. DiffX™ is the solution.”

Elaine’s passion comes to life on the ground. Whether it’s running a two-day study session in South Wales or carrying out urgent outbreak audits at short notice, her commitment is evident.

“We offer seamless transition to DiffX™. I’ll meet the team, discuss the transfer, train the staff, and check in throughout. We’re a responsive, accommodating company.”

Elaine’s day-to-day often includes training sessions in ICUs, theatres, maternity and neonatal units, and public areas. She’s been working recently across three sites in Hertfordshire, focusing not just on how to use DiffX™, but on the vital role domestic teams play.

“Whether they’re called Domestic Services, Hotel Services, or Hospitality Teams, they’re absolutely essential. They support infection prevention in a huge way. But can feel undervalued. I always remind them how important they are.”

A particularly powerful case came from a contact in west Yorkshire from a nurse who suffered chlorine inhalation in ICU and was off work for several months. “When the hospital introduced DiffX™, the difference was immediate. The nurse was able to go back to work, enjoying the job they love.”

It’s not just about health outcomes; it’s about mindset too. Elaine often encounters what she calls “ritualistic practice.”

“People say, ‘If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.’ But chlorine is broken. It’s hurting staff and not protecting patients the way it should.”

She makes a point of involving every key player in the transition process – IPC link nurses, microbiologists, soft FM teams, supervisors, and occupational health departments. Each receives training, information, and guidance documentation to sign off competencies.

“The product is only as effective as the people who use it. That’s why training matters.”

For Elaine, working at MTP Innovations means doing meaningful work every day: “I love my job. I love educating people. I love feeling like I’m helping people who’ve been where I was. I wish we’d had DiffX™ when I was a nurse.”

If you would like to transition to DiffX™ contact Elaine Randall today: Elaine.Randall@mtpinnovations.com

At MTP Innovations, we are proud to announce our membership in The Kirkwood Business Movement, a fantastic initiative led by The Kirkwood Hospice. This local networking movement brings together businesses that are committed to supporting their community and making a positive impact on the lives of people with life-limiting illnesses.

Why The Kirkwood?

The Kirkwood has been a cornerstone of specialist palliative care in Huddersfield for nearly four decades. Each year, they provide invaluable support to over 2,000 patients and their families. With 75% of their income needing to be generated through community support, businesses like ours play a vital role in ensuring they can continue their essential work.

Beverley Shaw, Business Development Manager at The Kirkwood, said: “We are delighted MTP Innovations is the latest business to join The Kirkwood Business Movement. The Kirkwood was created nearly four decades ago, with the support of the community who were passionate about creating a specialist palliative care facility in Huddersfield for the community within Kirklees.

“Each year, The Kirkwood supports over 2,000 patients and their families, following a life-limiting illness diagnosis. With 75% of income needing to be generated, we are as reliant now, as we were nearly four decades ago from the support of our community. A key part of this, is the business community within the area.

“The Kirkwood Business Movement offers a collaborative approach between ourselves and the business members, with a focus on supporting each other. Partnering with The Kirkwood supports not only local people but also the growth, brand visibility, and network of our business members.”

Giving back to the community

Mike Jepson, Managing Director of MTP Innovations, shared his thoughts on why this partnership is important: “At MTP Innovations, we strongly believe in giving back to the community that supports us.

“Joining The Kirkwood Business Movement allows us to contribute to an organisation that provides invaluable care to those in need. We see this as an opportunity to not only support a fantastic cause but also to connect with other local businesses that share our commitment to making a difference.”

As part of our membership, we have already begun making use of The Kirkwood Business Movement digital toolkit to share our partnership with stakeholders. Additionally, Mike is looking forward to attending the networking events to build relationships and explore new opportunities, including potential collaborations with local hospitals. Joining The Kirkwood Business Movement allows us to engage with other like-minded businesses, expand our network, and support a cause that truly matters.

As we move forward, we are excited to explore more ways to contribute, including signing the ‘Support Life Charter,’ appointing a Support Life Champion within our business, and offering volunteering and fundraising opportunities for our employees.

Looking ahead

For those looking to get involved, The Kirkwood runs a variety of campaigns and events throughout the year. From fundraising initiatives to community challenges, there are plenty of opportunities to support their vital work.

In 2025, they have launched exciting initiatives such as ‘Challenge Yourself in 2025,’ which encourages individuals to take on personal goals – whether fitness challenges, creative projects, or lifestyle changes – while raising sponsorship funds.

The Kirkwood is also hosting a range of events in this year including the ‘Stand Up For The Kirkwood Comedy Night’, the thrilling ‘Fire Walk’ challenge, and the adventurous ‘Skydive’ in April. For those looking for a team-based challenge, ‘The Kirkwood Jailbreak – Bad Girls’ event promises a fun and engaging way to raise funds. Finally, the flagship ‘Starlight Walk’ in July brings the community together for a night-time journey in support of The Kirkwood’s mission.

MTP Innovations is committed to making a difference in our local community, and our partnership with The Kirkwood is an important step in that journey. We believe that businesses have a role to play in supporting causes that enhance the lives of those around us.

For more information about The Kirkwood Business Movement and how you can get involved, visit www.thekirkwood.org.uk.

England is currently grappling with an unprecedented surge in norovirus cases, with hospitals reporting an average of 1,160 patients admitted daily – a record figure more than double that of the previous year.

This sharp increase has placed significant strain on the NHS, already contending with high bed occupancy rates and the pressures of seasonal illnesses.

Norovirus, commonly known as the ‘winter vomiting bug,’ is a highly contagious virus that leads to sudden onset of nausea, vomiting, and diarrhoea. While symptoms typically resolve within two to three days, the virus can cause severe dehydration, particularly among vulnerable populations such as the elderly and young children. Transmission occurs through direct contact with an infected individual, contact with contaminated surfaces, or consumption of contaminated food or water.

Professor Sir Stephen Powis, NHS Medical Director, said: “It is concerning to see the number of patients with norovirus hit an all-time high and there is no let up for hospital staff who are working tirelessly to treat more than a thousand patients each day with the horrible bug, on top of other winter viruses.”

It’s a really unpleasant illness to catch, but for the vast majority of people, it will usually pass in a couple of days, and self-treating at home is the best way to help yourself and avoid putting others at risk. Professor Powis adds: “To help stop the spread of norovirus, it is important to remember to wash your hands frequently with soap and water and avoid mixing with other people until you have not had symptoms for two days.”

The NHS guidance for individuals advises those affected to stay at home and maintain hydration. Regular handwashing with soap and warm water is crucial, as alcohol-based hand sanitisers are ineffective against norovirus. Individuals are also urged to avoid preparing food for others while symptomatic and to remain at home for at least 48 hours after symptoms have subsided to prevent further transmission.

In light of the outbreak, Mike Jepson, Managing Director, MTP Innovations, highlighted the role of effective cleaning solutions in hospitals, and healthcare environments: “As well as maintaining personal hygiene and safety, maintaining a hygienic environment is paramount in controlling the spread of norovirus. DiffX™ has been rigorously tested and meets the European Standard EN 14476, confirming its efficacy against norovirus even in dirty conditions.”

DiffX™ offers a streamlined approach to disinfection. Unlike traditional chlorine-based products that necessitate a two-step process – cleaning to remove organic matter followed by disinfection – DiffX™ is designed to penetrate and eliminate organic contaminants in a single application, simplifying hygiene protocols.

Christine Sparks, Commercial Director, MTP Innovations, adds: “For NHS Trusts and other public facing settings aiming to enhance their infection control measures, MTP Innovations provides fully supported training and transition of DiffX™ including insights into integrating this solution quickly and effectively.

“As the nation confronts this norovirus surge, adherence to public health guidelines and the adoption of proven disinfection methods remain critical in mitigating the virus’s impact and spread. Now is the time to switch to DiffX™.”

If you’re interested in a sustainable cleaning and disinfection system that is effective against norovirus and all other known HCAIs, please contact, Mike Jepson mike.jepson@mtpinnovations.com, Managing Director, MTP Innovations, to arrange a discussion.

At MTP Innovations, we pride ourselves on innovation and dedication, and no one exemplifies this better than our Commercial Director, Christine Sparks. With over three decades of experience in the public and private facilities services industry, Christine brings unparalleled expertise, passion, and a deep understanding of the healthcare sector to our team.

From an initial Spark

Christine’s career journey began in business and finance roles, where she gained valuable experience before pursuing higher education, earning a HNC and then degree in Management from the University of Sunderland.

Her early career saw her take on a variety of roles, from working in contract catering to becoming a regional operations manager for Aramark. These experiences built her operational knowledge and honed her leadership skills, setting the stage for her transition into the healthcare and facilities management sector.

It was in her role as operations director and latterly business development director for the healthcare division of Rentokil-Initial, that Christine met Mike Jepson, now MTP’s Managing Director. Her hands-on, collaborative approach – walking the floor to understand the challenges faced by grassroots healthcare teams – helped her build strong relationships, an in-depth knowledge of the sector, and unknowingly secure her next role.

Joining MTP Innovations

In 2011, Christine joined forces with Mike to co-found MTP Innovations. She was motivated by the potential of their groundbreaking product, DiffX™, a powerful non-chlorine disinfectant designed to improve infection control and public safety. Having seen the challenges cleaning and domestic teams faced with chlorine-based products first-hand, from harsh smells and respiratory problems to damage to equipment and surfaces, DiffX™ offered a game-changing solution: effective cleaning and disinfection without the downsides of chlorine.

Her early days with the company were hands-on, with Christine involved in everything from product development, stock management, and marketing. Today, her role has evolved into overseeing commercial strategy, client relationships, and driving the company’s growth and mission to make healthcare environments safer and more sustainable.

A household name

Christine has witnessed significant advancements in healthcare over the years, particularly the rise of infection control teams within the NHS. She takes pride in the role DiffX™ has played in helping IPC teams to adopt alternatives to chlorine, which are safer, more sustainable, effective, and aligned with the NHS’s net-zero goals.

Under Christine’s leadership, MTP Innovations has achieved many significant milestones, including securing patents for DiffX™ in the United States, New Zealand, Australia, France, the Netherlands, Germany, and the UK, reflecting the global potential of MTP Innovations’ products.

Christine’s passion for making a difference drives her every day, ensuring MTP Innovations continues to improve infection prevention while reducing environmental impact. Her vision is a future where DiffX™ is a household name, used not only in healthcare but in homes across the UK, Europe, and beyond.

Beyond the office

Christine’s dedication extends beyond her professional life. She is the chair of a local netball team, a level two coach working with under-16s team and has played and coached netball for decades, even volunteering at her local primary school for more than 10 years and coaching at county level. Her love for all fitness has now led her to HIIT workouts and strength training with a personal trainer. She has actively engaged in Pilates for many years, loves Zumba and dance classes. Whilst her running days are over, she completed the Great North Run as well as many local 10k races.

When she’s not on the court, Christine enjoys crafting, depending on the time of year her interests range from crocheting to making Christmas wreaths. She is also kept busy gardening, walking Ruby, her golden doodle, who she affectionately describes as a “princess”!

Mike Jepson, the Managing Director and co-founder of MTP Innovations, has been in the world of healthcare and infection control for over 30 years. Starting with 16 years of experience at Rentokil-Initial, including a nine-year tenure as Managing Director of its healthcare division, Mike has brought a wealth of knowledge, experience and a deep understanding of healthcare challenges to MTP Innovations, the producer of DiffX™.

From industrial economics to healthcare innovation

Mike’s journey began with a degree in Industrial Economics, which laid a solid foundation for his business insight and strategic thinking. His extensive career at Rentokil-Initial equipped him with a comprehensive understanding of the NHS and the Department of Health, providing him with a unique understanding into the healthcare industry’s intricacies and challenges.

“I have always been interested in driving innovation and adding value,” Mike says. “I’m passionate about continual improvement; always focused on ‘better’ – better products, better results, and better services.”

A vision for better healthcare solutions

The inception of DiffX™ is a testament to Mike’s innovative spirit and determination to solve real-world problems: “Before DiffX™ when hospitals suffer an outbreak, staff had to clean with detergent and then chlorine – a two-stage clean. It’s not productive and staff didn’t like breathing it in,” Mike recalls. “I’m a people person who likes finding solutions so I asked myself, ‘Couldn’t we just invent something better than chlorine?’”.

This question sparked a two-year journey of experimentation and collaboration. Working closely with Peter, our chemist and Professor Paul Humphreys at the University of Huddersfield, Mike and his team developed a breakthrough solution. DiffX™, outperformed traditional chlorine-based products in independent analyses, particularly in combating C. diff, one of the most challenging pathogens to eliminate.

“The hardest thing to kill is C. diff, so we were incredibly excited when we realised we had developed the right formula to eliminate it. It was a huge breakthrough moment,” Mike says.

Milestones and achievements

The journey to success has been marked by several key milestones. The first hospital trial at a major teaching hospital in central London, later became DiffX™’s first customer and remains so today, which is a significant validation of the product’s effectiveness.

Another major breakthrough was finding the perfect PVA film sachet for DiffX™, which dissolves in warm water, ensuring that users do not come into physical contact with the substance.

“We’ve had a few eureka moments and milestones, and we have a lot to be proud of,” Mike reflects. “DiffX™ is now recognised as an effective and trusted alternative to chlorine.”

Looking ahead

His belief in DiffX™ is unwavering. “The challenge of controlling and eliminating hospital acquired infections is a daily issue for the NHS and private healthcare providers. Having developed a product that has proven to assist in reducing risks, we are keen to ensure that infection control teams across the UK are aware of the benefits and have access to our fully supported training and transition to DiffX™.”

Mike’s vision for his company MTP Innovations is ambitious and forward-thinking. “I’m never resting on my laurels and have plans to grow the company through expanding into Europe and the USA. I’m also keen to scale-up so that we can reach different sectors – I’d love other industries to benefit from DiffX™ such as veterinary practices, retail, and manufacturing facilities,” he explains.

Beyond the business

Outside of his professional life, Mike is a passionate outdoorsman. He loves walking in the Yorkshire Dales and Peak District, particularly Saddleworth Moors, and enjoys combining this with his love of travel on walking holidays. Recently, he bought an acre of land at the rear of his garden and were fortunate to work with River Holme Connections to arrange the planting of 320 native trees, demonstrating his commitment to environmental stewardship.

Mike Jepson’s story is one of relentless pursuit of excellence, innovative thinking, and a genuine passion for making a difference in the world of healthcare. His leadership at MTP Innovations continues to drive the company towards new heights, ensuring that DiffX™ remains a trusted ally in the fight against infection.

Following our return from the Infection Prevention Society (IPS) 2024 conference, where we had the pleasure of catching up with our customers and meeting new faces in the infection prevention community. It’s always a highlight for us to have face-to-face conversations with infection prevention and control specialists, who play a vital role in shaping the future of healthcare hygiene.

Understanding of peracetic acid on the rise

If there was one key takeaway from the event? It’s that the tide is turning within the NHS away from chlorine-based products, and we’re excited to see peracetic acid (PAA) being more widely discussed and accepted as the future of high-level cleaning and disinfection.

At MTP Innovations, we’ve championed PAA for over 14 years through our flagship product, DiffX™. It’s heartening to see the growing momentum around this more sustainable and effective alternative to chlorine.

In fact, one of the major teaching hospitals in England has been using DiffX™ for over 12 years. The trust in our product’s longevity, reliability, and proven performance speaks volumes about its effectiveness. Whether it’s reducing infection rates or offering a greener option, DiffX™ has remained the tried-and-tested choice for healthcare institutions across the UK.

New interest from hospices, care homes, and domiciliary care

It’s not just hospitals turning to DiffX™. We’re noticing growing interest from hospices, care homes, and domiciliary care providers. Trials are underway across the country, and more healthcare providers are making the switch to our product, recognising the environmental and clinical benefits of moving away from chlorine.

Supporting sustainability in healthcare

At MTP Innovations, we’re passionate about both healthcare and sustainability. That’s why, as promised, we’re pleased to announce that we will be making a donation to the Centre for Sustainable Healthcare. This reflects our commitment to driving change, not just through the products we offer, but through supporting broader initiatives that align with our values of environmental responsibility and innovation.

Here to stay

While you will, no doubt, begin to see other peracetic acid products in the market, we’ve been at the forefront of PAA disinfection for over a decade. Our track record and long-term relationships speak for themselves – proven performance, trusted by the NHS and care sectors, and a clear commitment to the future of sustainable healthcare.

If you’re interested in exploring a sustainable, established alternative to chlorine, feel free to contact me directly, Mike Jepson mike.jepson@mtpinnovations.com, Managing Director, MTP Innovations, to arrange fully supported training and transition to DiffX™.

In the fast-paced world of healthcare, convenience often takes priority. Disposable disinfectant wipes, widely used across the NHS, seem like a quick and efficient cleaning solution. However, the environmental and financial costs associated with their use are substantial and increasingly hard to ignore. Plus, a soon-to-be-implemented ban will dramatically escalate the pace of change. 

The environmental cost of disposable wipes 

Did you know that billions of disposable disinfectant wipes are used in the NHS every year? These wipes, many of which contain plastic fibres, contribute significantly to plastic waste. Some wipes contain plastic that doesn’t break down easily, leading to microplastics entering our ecosystems. 

Recent figures from the dentistry industry show that an average dental practice uses 400 single-use wipes per week per surgery, which means a four-chair practice alone will use approximately 75,000 wipes per year. 

Despite their convenience, disposable wipes pose a severe environmental threat, with their disposal adding to clinical waste streams. As the UK moves towards more sustainable practices, including a planned ban on wet wipes containing plastic in 2024, it’s time to consider alternatives. 

“It is best to be ahead of the game and prepare early so that you have a secure, safe supply for when the ban takes effect,” says Mike Jepson, Managing Director, MTP Innovations. “Your choice should be informed by cost, effectiveness, and the safety and wellbeing of your staff and patients. 

Reduce reliance on disposable wipes quickly and easily 

Adopting a more sustainable replacement will mean a small but significant step towards a net zero healthcare system. 

DiffX™ offers the perfect alternative to disposable wipes. By transitioning away from single-use wipes and adopting sustainable cleaning practices like DiffX™, hospitals and healthcare facilities can make significant strides towards their Green Plans and net zero targets by reducing plastic and waste while continuing to provide safe and effective care. 

Moreover, HTM07-01 guidance advocates for the use of reusable cleaning equipment over disposable wipes, reinforcing the importance of reducing waste and minimising environmental impact in healthcare settings. 

The benefits of reusability 

DiffX™ is mixed in refillable containers such as our 5L, 2.5L and squeezy bottles that you can use again, and again. Once prepared, DiffX™ remains effective for 24 hours, ensuring thorough cleaning AND disinfection with minimal waste. 

Preparing and using DiffX™ to replace wipes is straightforward: simply prepare a squeezy bottle with warm water, drop in a 5g DiffX™ sachet, and wait for it to dissolve. Pour the solution onto a reusable cloth of your choice – such as microfibre cloths which are gaining popularity in NHS sites for their durability and effectiveness – and you’re ready to go. 

Mike adds: “Anecdotally, we heard from one of our customers who had to replace £28,000 worth of microfibre clothes after using them with chlorine. They then switched to DiffX™, which is pH neutral, with no issues at all. Unlike chlorine-based disinfectants, which can damage microfibre cloths, DiffX™ is safe to use, prolonging the life of these reusable materials.”  

The ‘wipe-free revolution’  

By switching to DiffX™, healthcare facilities can significantly reduce their reliance on disposable wipes and embrace a lower environmental impact solution. 

Join the ‘wipe-free revolution’ and get in touch with the MTP Innovations team to organise fully supported transition and training of DiffX™.  

As we gear up for the IPS Conference 2024, taking place in Birmingham 23 – 25 September 2024, sustainability is taking centre stage.

MTP Innovations is thrilled to be part of this exciting event, showcasing how our cutting-edge DiffX™ cleaning solutions can help Infection Prevention & Control (IPC) professionals achieve their sustainability goals without compromising on effectiveness or safety.

You can find us at stand 22, where Mike Jepson and Elaine Randall will be available to discuss how we’re championing sustainability in healthcare cleaning and disinfection.

Mike Jepson, Managing Director, MTP Innovations, said: “We developed DiffX™ to provide a powerful, reliable solution that not only meets stringent infection control standards but also supports the broader goals of sustainability.

“Our products help reduce waste, conserve water, and extend equipment life, making them a perfect fit for today’s environmentally-conscious healthcare providers. I can’t wait to show conference delegates how DiffX™ can support their teams in cleaning and disinfecting more sustainably.”

Why sustainability matters in IPC

Sustainability has become a crucial part of healthcare, and the IPS 2024 programme reflects this growing focus. At MTP Innovations, we’re committed to helping healthcare providers reduce waste, conserve water, and extend the life of vital equipment – all while maintaining the highest standards of infection control.

We’re excited to attend the following sessions on Day 3 of the conference, which we think align closely with our mission:

• 11:30 to 12:05 (Hall 9, Session 22b): Can we improve healthcare decontamination without compromising IPC? – Dr James Price from Brighton & Sussex Medical School will explore how decontamination practices can evolve to meet sustainability goals.
• 12:50 to 13:25 (Hall 9, Session 24b): Collaboration of IPC and Sustainability: exemplar sites – Imogen Stringer from Great Ormond Street Hospital will share inspiring case studies of hospitals that are leading the way in sustainable IPC.

Make a difference with DiffX™

At MTP Innovations we believe that sustainability goes hand in hand with innovation. By choosing DiffX™, healthcare’s first Peracetic Acid (PAA) cleaning and disinfection solution, you’re not only enhancing infection control protocols but also supporting efforts to reduce environmental impact. Our solutions are designed to minimise waste and resource use, ensuring long-lasting results in clinical settings.

Elaine Randall, Business Development Manager, MTP Innovations, said: “The IPS Conference is such a vital event for bringing together innovative ideas in infection prevention. It’s exciting to see sustainability become a key focus, and I’m looking forward to discussing how DiffX™ can support hospitals in making more eco-conscious decisions without sacrificing performance.”

 Find us on stand 22

As a token of appreciation, we’re offering an easy opportunity to give back: for every person who signs up at our stand to learn more about how DiffX™ can support them, we’ll make a donation to Centre for Sustainable Healthcare. A charity founded in 2008 focused on reducing healthcare’s resource footprint. This is a simple way for us to join together in a small but meaningful way.

Stop by stand 22 to speak with Mike and Elaine and find out how DiffX™ can help you meet your sustainability and IPC goals.

In the battle against hospital-acquired infections, the choice of disinfectant can make a critical difference.

For years, chlorine-based disinfectants have been the go-to solution for many healthcare facilities. However, recent research has drawn attention to the inadequacy one of the main chlorine disinfectants – bleach – and its inability to kill off Clostridioides difficile (C. diff), the most common cause of antibiotic associated diarrhoea in healthcare settings.

And now advancements in disinfection technology have introduced superior alternatives which are not only more effective in killing pathogens but are also safer and more environmentally friendly.

The limitations of chlorine-based disinfectants

Chlorine has long been used for its strong disinfectant properties. However, it comes with several drawbacks:

• Corrosive nature: Chlorine is corrosive and can damage surfaces, equipment, and even skin upon contact.
• Health risks: Chlorine exposure can lead to respiratory problems and skin irritation for healthcare workers and patients.
• Environmental impact: Chlorine products can generate harmful compounds into the environment, contributing to pollution and ecological damage.

Christine Sparks, Commercial Director, MTP Innovations, said: “While chlorine has served as a reliable disinfectant for many years, the risks associated with chlorine and the recent research highlighting its ineffectiveness cannot be ignored. Particularly when there’s now a more advanced alternative solution available supported by robust research and real-world effectiveness.”

Time for change

Recent University of Plymouth research, featured in the Independent (‘Chlorine disinfectant no more effective than water at killing superbug’) and the Guardian (‘Bleach does not tackle fatal hospital superbug, UK researchers find’), presents a compelling case for rethinking disinfection practices and products in healthcare with evidence suggesting that chlorine may be ‘no more effective than water’.

According to the findings, spores of the C. diff bacteria are unaffected in certain contexts despite being treated with high concentrations of bleach.

Christine adds: “It is time to consider safer, more effective alternatives. DiffX™ disinfectant stands out as the solution that addresses the limitations of chlorine while providing superior pathogen control.

“For healthcare facilities committed to the highest standards of hygiene and safety, the transition to more advanced disinfectants is a crucial step forward.”

A superior alternative

DiffX™ disinfectant represents a significant advancement in infection control and offers several compelling benefits over traditional chlorine-based disinfectants:

• Enhanced efficacy: DiffX™ is effective in eliminating pathogens, including tough-to-eradicate bacteria and viruses, whilst working through dirt and organic matter. This improved efficacy translates to better protection for patients and staff.
• Safety: DiffX™ is non-corrosive and non-irritating, making it safer for both healthcare workers and patients. It eliminates the health risks associated with chlorine exposure, ensuring a safer working environment.
• Environmental friendliness: DiffX™ is biodegradable and does not produce harmful byproducts. This means it is kinder to the environment, aligning with the NHS’s commitment to sustainability and Green Plans.

“Embracing innovation in disinfection products and practices not only enhances patient care but also supports the wellbeing of healthcare workers and the environment,” says Christine. “Let’s work together to make our hospitals safer and healthier for everyone.”

For more information on DiffX™ and how it can benefit your facility call 01484 505 615 or email info@diffxdoesit.com.

Infection control staff and healthcare cleaning teams make a major contribution to protecting the health of the nation. 

Often working diligently below the radar, these two crucially important teams function as the first line of defence and the last line of resistance in the fight against harmful pathogens.  

People protectors 

Infection prevention and control teams work with healthcare staff, patients, and visitors to reduce the risk of transmission of infection, often in partnership with the Domestic Services teams also working to reduce the risk of infection. The NHS calls them “the lifeblood of the NHS.” 

By setting and upholding high standards in cleanliness and care, these guardians actively prevent the spread of illness and keep patients, staff and visitors safe. 

The evolution of cleaning process 

How can we make their job easier? What can we do to support them?  

Time is of the essence when cleaning and disinfecting, so one way to help would be to save them time.  

Historically, chlorine has been the go-to disinfectant to clean hospitals and surfaces, but studies show that chlorine loses its efficacy when it comes into contact with dirt or organic matter, so surfaces and areas are cleaned with detergents before being disinfected with chlorine, effectively doubling the time it takes to make a ward safe. 

Despite this two-step process, the method became routine. Chlorine also has the additional drawback of being corrosive in nature and not suitable for use on all materials. 

There was no alterative until recently.  

The next generation of pathogen-fighting power 

Hospitals and other healthcare settings are now choosing our timesaving one-step process combining cleaning and disinfection with DiffX™. Working through dirt and reducing the spread of infection without lowering standards of care. 

Tested in UK laboratories to comply with the highest European standards, this powerful chlorine-free oxygenated cleaning and disinfection system is proven to eliminate all known surface contamination including spores, bacteria, viruses. DiffX™ eliminates COVID-19, C. difficile, MRSA, Norovirus, H1N1 virus, CRE/CRO, CPE, Candidozyma auris, Mpox, and Tuberculosis. 

This dual-purpose professional grade product also has cost saving benefits while keeping cleaning and disinfection standards high, and its pH-neutral, non-corrosive formula is also gentler on surfaces and equipment. It is a natural progression in infection prevention. 

Contact the MTP Innovations team to organise your fully supported training and transition to DiffX™. 

Mike Jepson       Email: info@diffxdoesit.com    Telephone: 01484 505615