The laboratory processes 20,000–25,000 analyses daily. The previous track from 2011 was semi-automated and required manual handling for sorting, prioritizing analyses, and managing analyzed test tubes. The new automation has improved the work environment by nearly eliminating repetitive and physically demanding tasks, Region Värmland said.
Fredrik Aronsson, Head of Laboratory Medicine, stated that the new system has increased capacity with existing staff. The automation track features 278 small electric vehicles that transport sample tubes. Each vehicle has a serial number and a collision sensor to prevent stops.
This track is truly state of the art.
The track also has overtaking lanes so urgent samples can pass without hindrance. In contrast, the old track had only one lane and was driven by a motor. Aronsson noted that the new automation provides faster results for acute samples and more standardized handling regardless of time of day.
" Aronsson added, "Manual handling always involves a risk of mistakes. Uncapping thousands of tubes every day is not sustainable.