Establish Sterile Protocol
30 minutesDefine sterile technique steps, workspace setup, and contamination response procedures.
Field context
This workflow is part of 3 niche fields
Complete guide for contamination prevention — step-by-step workflow, tools, checklist, and expert tips to get started.
Define sterile technique steps, workspace setup, and contamination response procedures.
Set acceptable contamination rate targets and identify cleaning frequency for workspaces.
Install still air box or HEPA flow, stock 70% isopropyl, and establish washdown sanitation schedule.
Inspect all batches daily, identify contamination by color, and execute quarantine or disposal protocol.
Schedule workspace sanitization and equipment cleaning intervals.
Verify sanitizing solution concentration for surface washdown.
Ensure grow room airflow prevents stagnant zones where mold thrives.
Confirm humidity levels stay in range that favors mushroom over mold growth.
Key benchmarks for contamination prevention.
| Color | Likely | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Green | Trichoderma | Remove immediately |
| Black | Aspergillus | Remove + review sterile tech |
| Orange | Nematodes | Discard all + sanitize |
Every second open jar exposure to room air increases contamination risk — prepare everything before opening.
Trichoderma spreads fast through air — remove green-contaminated blocks immediately, do not inspect further indoors.
A clear plastic tub with arm holes costs $15 and reduces contamination dramatically vs open bench work.