Resolutions to Cleanroom Changes in 2026 for Better Contamination Control

As we move into 2026, Contec Cleanroom kicked off the new year with an engaging and insightful webinar, “Resolutions to Cleanroom Changes in 2026 for Better Contamination Control.” Hosted by Patricia Igneczi and Amy Russ—with special contributions from Marie Wright in the UK, Charles Setzer in the cleanroom, and several other Contec team members—this virtual event brought together cleanroom professionals from across the globe to set actionable goals for cleaner, safer critical environments. 

Whether you missed the event or just want a quick refresher, here’s a highlight of what was covered during this dynamic and festive session. 

Resolution #1: Enhance Environmental Monitoring (EM) Trending 

One of the most common concerns across cleanroom facilities is how to get more value out of environmental monitoring data. The team emphasized that one-dimensional trending reports that simply track CFUs or excursion events isn’t enough—EM data should tell a story. 

Key Takeaways for Enhancing Environmental Monitoring (EM) Trending: 

• Look beyond the zeros. Use visuals like heat maps, contamination recovery rates (CRR), and control charts to detect trends. 

• Set site-specific alert and action limits. Generic thresholds don’t reflect the reality of your cleanroom. 

• Incorporate microbial identification. Knowing *what* organisms you're recovering (not just *how many*) gives insight into root causes. 

• Use EM data to drive action. SOPs should define how trending leads to CAPAs, investigations, or operational changes. 

• Visual communication is key. Dashboards and color-coded reports make data accessible and audit-ready. 
• Encourage cleanroom ownership. Involve operators in EM awareness to foster a shared responsibility for contamination control. 

Marie, Contec’s microbiology expert from the UK, provided six practical EM trending tips—including using control charts, performing periodic reviews, and integrating EM discussions into cross-functional meetings. 

Resolution #2: Implement an Effective Residue Management Program 

Residue has become a hot topic in cleanroom management—and for good reason. The old mindset of “residue equals cleanliness” has shifted. Today, facilities understand that residue can inhibit disinfectant efficacy and even damage critical cleanroom surfaces.  

Key Takeaways for Implementing an Effective Residue Management Program: 

• Identify the residue. Understand whether it's from water-based or solvent-based disinfectants before choosing a removal agent. 

• Match solvent to residue type. For example, solvent-based residues are more readily removed using solvent-based solutions like  IPA—not just water. 

• Use the right wipe. A high-quality cleanroom wiper improves removal performance, and mechanical action is key! 

• Don’t forget about hidden residues. Residue “blindness” can occur when operators become accustomed to build up over time. 

• Inspect regularly. Use visual checks or gemba walks to catch and address residues early. 

• Consider floors. As high-traffic, frequently disinfected surfaces, they often accumulate residue and can become safety hazards if not properly maintained. 

A live demonstration by Charles Setzer showed how accumulated, heavy residues require more than a single pass of a dry cleanroom wipe (or mop) to return a surface to a visually clean state. Use of a presaturated wipe, or a separate step to directly wet the residue, allow time for it to solubilize, allows for greater residue removal. Charles’s demonstration was a great visual reminder that mechanical action and the correct combination of wipe and solvent are essential. 

Resolution #3: Build a Culture of Clean 

Training operators is just the beginning. Developing a Culture of Clean means empowering every team member to understand their role in contamination control—and fostering pride and ownership in that role. 

Key Takeaways for Building a Culture of Clean: 

• Train the “why.” Operators should understand the impact of their actions, not just the steps in an SOP. 

• Empower your team. When people feel their work matters, they are more likely to follow procedures with care and consistency. 

• Celebrate wins. Recognizing cleanroom excellence builds morale and reinforces good habits. 

• Address turnover with strong onboarding. High turnover requires training systems that are easy to replicate and sustain. 

• Create advocates. If leadership support is lacking, find someone who can champion contamination control on the floor. 

Let’s Raise the Bar, Not Drop the Ball

From raising the Mirrored Mop in Times Square to the final champagne toast, the webinar captured both the spirit of the season and the seriousness of cleanroom contamination control. 

In 2026, Contec Cleanroom encourages facilities to raise the bar by: 

Improving how environmental data is used 
Developing intentional residue removal strategies 
Building stronger contamination control cultures from the inside out 

Want to Learn More? 

Stay tuned to Contec Cleanroom for upcoming webinars, product insights, and practical guidance on maintaining contamination control across life sciences, pharmaceutical, biotech, and microelectronics environments. 

Let’s make 2026 the cleanest year yet. 

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