What is the minimum frequency for decontaminating the C-PEC?

• A. Daily
• B. Weekly
• C. Monthly
• D. Annually

Answer: (A)

Regular decontamination of the C-PEC is essential to prevent exposure to hazardous drugs. Residues can deposit on interior surfaces during compounding and may linger even after cleaning, so a routine clean is necessary to maintain a safe work environment and prevent cross-contamination. Setting the minimum frequency to daily ensures there is a consistent, predictable baseline cleanup each day, helping to remove drug residues before the next use and after spills or spills-like events. Cleaning less often, such as weekly, monthly, or annually, would allow residues to accumulate and increase exposure risk. In practice, you’d supplement the daily decontamination with immediate cleaning after any spill and additional wiping at shift changes, but daily decontamination is the baseline.