Qlicksmart Flask - FAQ's

1.   Why are there two different colours of the Qlicksmart unit?

The Qlicksmart Flask unit has been designed to comply with the international standard colours for medical sharps waste. The red unit complies with US standards and the yellow unit for all other countries around the globe. ^Top
 

2.   Can I re-use Qlicksmart?

No. Each Qlicksmart Flask has been designed to accept 100 blades. After the 100th blade has been removed - when the Qlicksmart Usage Indicator shows 'FULL', a shut off gate is activated to prevent further use and overfilling. Once 'FULL' the Flask must be removed from its bracket and disposed of as Medical Waste. ^Top
 

3.   Why can't I reuse the Qlicksmart Flask - it is extremely sturdy, and it looks big enough to take a lot more than 100 blades?

The Qlicksmart Flask is definitely sturdy, and has been engineered to withstand extensive forces if dropped. This is to avoid risk of spillage in the event of accidental dropping, any other form impact, or from its internal contents.

Qlicksmart has been designed as a very simple, and user friendly device to use. At the same time, to achieve simplicity of use with such an extensive range of handle and blade combinations requires significant complexity of the internal mechanism. Consumption is limited to 100 blades as it has been exhaustively tested, and we are prepared to underwrite its use for 100 blade removals. Would you appreciate a device that simply worked until it failed?

a. Due to the size of the internal mechanisms; and

b. To accommodate circumstances where the Flask may be used without its mounting bracket.

This is NOT recommended practice, but if this does occur, the ergonomic design of the Flask allows for a user stabilising the Flask by its top handle to insert and remove a blade with their other hand with a reasonable degree of separation between the two hands.

USE OF Qlicksmart in this way, however, is NOT recommended practice - as Qlicksmart believes that the only safe way to remove a blade is by a single-handed method. The Qlicksmart System has been designed for a single-handed process of removal. ^Top
 

4.   How do I dispose of the Qlicksmart Flask?

5.   Why does Qlicksmart have a Counter?

The Qlicksmart Flask has a uniquely designed indicator that counts down from 100 to 0, then 'FULL'. This indicator is there to let users know when the device is becoming full and a new one may be needed.

This indicator also allows users that have Qlicksmart installed in various locations to monitor usage by location. Indications are that locations that have only a low need for scalpel blade usage may actually have a significantly increased risk of injury arising from scalpel blade removal due to the lack of experience in removal by users in that location. Some users take the opportunity to periodically move devices from low use locations to high use locations for increased efficiency. ^Top
 

6.   Handles and Blades - what combinations can be used?

The Qlicksmart System is constantly being reviewed for use with new handles and blades as they are released.

The Qlicksmart Flask can NOT be used with Baron handles, Beaver handles and Disposable handles.

Qlicksmart Flask functionality is limited by the length of blade. Maximum blade length tested is #36.

Some brands of handles may not work well with the Qlicksmart Flask due to the shape and slope of the handle tang. ^Top
 

7.   Why do I need a bracket?

The Qlicksmart System has been designed as single handed use system. It achieves this through the process of combining the Flask with a Universal Bracket. The Universal Bracket allows the Flask to be stabilised in position in such a way that it can be used single handedly on either a vertical or horizontal surface.

The same process allows Qlicksmart to be located in constant, convenient, known locations - so it is always there when you need it. Qlicksmart's early research showed that a common criticism of small, dual handed blade removers was that  ' you can never find them'. You don't want to be looking for something to use when you have a loaded handle in your hand. ^Top
 

8.   Do I need different brackets for vertical and horizontal surfaces?

No. The unique design of the Universal Bracket and Flask relationships allows for the Flask unit to be mounted on a wall, a bench/table, or trolley using the same Universal Bracket. This is achieved simply by fixing the Universal Bracket in the desired location for use, then inserting the Flask. ^Top
 

9.   When would I need to install a new bracket?

A new bracket needs to be installed when the current bracket starts to become loose and no longer holds the Qlicksmart Flask firmly on the wall or bench. This happens after the bracket has been used many times. ^Top
 

10.   What regulatory approvals does Qlicksmart have?

In Australia and New Zealand, Qlicksmart is certified for compliance with Australian/New Zealand Standards AS/NZS 3825:1998 - Procedures and devices for the removal and disposal of scalpel blades from scalpel handles.

In the USA, Qlicksmart has 510(k) approval for sale and distribution in all appropriate, regulated environments.

In Europe, Qlicksmart has Self-Declaration of Conformity as a Class I Device, pursuant to EC Directive 93/42/EEC. ^Top
 

11. Is the Qlicksmart Flask latex free?

YES, it is latex free! The Qlicksmart Flask is made of a thermoplastic, ABS (acrylonitrile butadiene styrene). ^Top