As a back table manufacturer based in the Pacific Northwest, OR Specific (ORS) has adopted sustainable manufacturing practices aimed at contributing to a cleaner future. Practicing sustainability in equipment manufacturing involves various initiatives, from using recycled packaging to reducing emissions through our USA supply chain. At OR Specific, we are committed to contributing to a greener future.
What is sustainability in surgical equipment manufacturing? Simply put, it means to create our two-tier backtables through economically-sound processes that minimize negative environmental impacts while conserving energy and natural resources. As a customer, choosing a sustainable back table manufacturer improves the standard of purchasing when considering a clean future. In this article we will discuss the eco-friendly practices and benefits of choosing a surgical equipment manufacturer that practices sustainability.
Eco-Friendly Manufacturing Practices
Recycled materials
At OR Specific, we utilize AISI 201 and AISI 304 stainless steel for the improved mechanical properties and corrosion resistance for our Double-decker back tables. This choice ensures our customers receive high-quality products that are rust-resistant and durable. Additionally, stainless steel is 100% recyclable, adding an eco-friendly advantage. Industrial scrap is the excess stainless left over from our manufacturing and fabrication process. We use a precise laser cutter to optimize the use of our stainless steel and minimize waste. The scraps from the laser cutter are collected and sent back to our stainless steel supplier for recycling into new stainless steel. Recycling stainless steel helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions and conserve natural resources such as nickel and iron.
ORS is a surgical equipment supplier with a commitment to sustainability that extends beyond recycling our industrial scrap. We also prioritize the use of recycled materials in our packaging. For instance, our corrugated cardboard packaging contains an average of 39% post-consumer recycled fiber. This approach not only helps reduce waste but also supports the circular economy by reusing materials that have already been processed, thus minimizing our environmental footprint and promoting responsible resource use.
Investing in Green Technology
In an effort to consistently be environmentally conscious, ORS invests in green technology from as simple as skylights to reduce the use of electricity, to the newest machinery to improve our manufacturing processes. In 2018, ORS invested in a new laser cutter which aided in the reduction of their industrial scrap with improved cutting accuracy and increased our manufacturing productivity. Through these innovations, ORS not only enhances efficiency but also reinforces its commitment to a sustainable future.
Why a USA Supply Chain is Environmentally Friendly
As a USA-based company, maintaining an efficient supply chain is crucial to our success. By utilizing a domestic supply chain, we not only reduce our carbon footprint but also enhance our resilience against disruptions in international supply chains, such as those experienced during the pandemic. Unlike many of our competitors, we operate entirely within the United States, with all our warehouses and products based domestically. This setup significantly cuts down on emissions from international transportation and logistics. Reducing transportation emissions is a key factor in improving supply chain sustainability.
An added benefit of our US-based supply chain is the significant reduction in lead times, which means faster delivery of products to our customers. By sourcing materials and managing production domestically, we can streamline processes and minimize delays. Additionally, being closer to our suppliers and production facilities enhances our quality control. This proximity allows for more rigorous oversight and quicker adjustments, ensuring that each two-tier back table meets our high standards of quality and reliability.
OR Specific, The Go-To Choice for Sustainability in Back Table Manufacturing
Sustainability in hospital equipment may not always be top of mind when evaluating back table options. The conscious decision to purchase from a back table manufacturer with sustainable practices aids in the ongoing effort to support a cleaner future. As you consider your next two-tier back table, weigh the environmental impacts of your choice. OR Specific stands out by using 100% recycled stainless steel, recyclable packaging materials, and a USA supply chain to minimize emissions. Opt for sustainability with OR Specific as your backtable supplier and make a positive impact on the environment.
