An early Fire Warning for Hospital?

This month a tragic fire incident claimed lives of 10 babies in a hospital in spite of heroic effort from the hospital staff to save the babies in neonatal unit.

Fact is every hospital is expected to install fire alarms over all patient-sensitve zone and it is also a fact that every year loss of lives happen in fire incidents in hospitals. Here is another incident that claimed lives in hospital in Delhi this year. An extensive study jointly carried by Department of HSE and Civil Engineering, School of Engineering, University of Petroleum and Energy Studies, Dehra Dun and Centre for Pollution Control and Environmental Engineering, Pondicherry University, found electrical short circuit as the predominant reason for such fires. Full lists of the incidents that they studied can be found here .

Electrical short circuit

Often, the post-incident analysis finds electrical short circuits as the reason. But they conspicuously silent about why the short circuit was not detected early?

Ideally electrical circuit monitoring system would alarm for any electrical shorts in the system. Typically modern circuit-breakers switch off a circuit when anomaly is detected. We do not know if that was in place or if it did not work.

There are also some incidents that started from gas appliance or kitchen stove.

Tracking zone-based temperature for better indicator

Every fire incident starts small and if the temperature at sensitive zones are continuously monitored, sudden change of temperature can be used as early indicator for fire and administrator can be warned in advance before the fire become devastating.

Another option could be to monitor ambient light in sensitive zones and any sudden spike of lumens reported could be considered as early warning.

Thankfully both can be easily implemented with a good flexible RTLS system at a very small cost. Not all RTLS require the hospital to adopt every features offered. A hospital can implement only temperature or light monitoring solution at a fractional cost of full-feature RTLS.

INDTRAC RTLS supports modular solution

INDTRAC RTLS has multiple modules and flexible options. It also lets the hospital pick sensor hardware of its choice, unlike most of the existing RTLS vendors. INDTRAC also lets a hospital implement for only a subset of its total area in order that the hospital manage its budget and cost better.

Summary

RTLS enabled microzone temperature monitoring may give a hospital early warnings to act and avoid the extensive fire related damage to its patients and facilities. Write to us to learn more.

Calculating a hospital’s RoI for RTLS

A common argument from the hospital management is that RTLS is too expensive for the hospital to adopt. We asked an expert to provide us a simple ROI analysis for a 350-bed hospital to demonstrate how long it takes for a hospital to break even.

Let’s get the assumptions out

  • Current Bed Utilization:
    • 70% of the time, bed utilization is below 70%.
    • Current average bed occupancy is estimated at 65%.
  • Time Savings:
    • Implementing RTLS is expected to save 2 hours/day in equipment search time.
  • Staff Costs:
    • Average hourly wage of hospital staff is ₹600.
  • Increased Revenue from Improved Bed Utilization:
    • By improving patient flow, it’s assumed that the hospital can increase utilization from 65% to an average of 75%, impacting overall admissions positively.
  • Operational Costs:
    • Annual operating costs for RTLS maintenance are estimated at ₹8,00,000.

Investment for RTLS

1. Initial Investment

a. RTLS Software and Hardware Costs

  • Software Licensing: ₹20,00,000
  • Hardware (tags, sensors, etc.): ₹30,00,000
  • Installation and Integration: ₹10,00,000
  • Training and Support: ₹5,00,000
  • Total Initial Investment: ₹65,00,000

2. Annual Operating Costs

  • Maintenance and Updates: ₹5,00,000
  • Support Services: ₹3,00,000
  • Total Annual Operating Costs: ₹8,00,000

Expected Annual Savings

a. Insights into Equipment Usage

  • Reduction in Equipment Search Time:
    • Time saved: 2 hours/day
    • Staff cost savings: ₹600/hour x 2 hours x 365 days = ₹4,38,000

b. Insights into Patient Flow

  • Improved Bed Turnover Rate:
    • Average occupancy increased from 65% to 75%.
    • Additional revenue from increased admissions:
      • Current Occupancy: 350 beds x 0.65 x 365 days = 84,875 patient days
      • New Occupancy: 350 beds x 0.75 x 365 days = 96,375 patient days
      • Additional patient days: 96,375 – 84,875 = 11,500
      • Average revenue per patient day: ₹2,500 (assumption)
      • Additional revenue: 11,500 patient days x ₹2,500 = ₹28,75,000

c. Improved Workflow Coordination

  • Reduction in Staff Overtime:
    • Savings from optimized workflows: ₹3,00,000

d. Operational Efficiency

  • Decrease in Equipment Losses and Repairs:
    • Estimated savings: ₹2,00,000

Total Expected Annual Savings

  • Total Savings: ₹4,38,000 + ₹28,75,000 + ₹3,00,000 + ₹2,00,000 = ₹38,13,000

Now let’s calculate Return of Investment (ROI)

First Year Costs

  • Total Initial Investment: ₹65,00,000
  • First Year Operating Costs: ₹8,00,000
  • Total First Year Costs: ₹65,00,000 + ₹8,00,000 = ₹73,00,000

b. First Year Savings

  • Total Expected Annual Savings: ₹38,13,000

c. Net Cost for the First Year

  • Net Cost: ₹73,00,000 – ₹38,13,000 = ₹34,87,000

5. Breakeven Analysis

a. Annual Savings Beyond Year 1

  • Annual Savings (after first year): ₹38,13,000
  • Annual Operating Costs: ₹8,00,000
  • Net Savings per Year: ₹38,13,000 – ₹8,00,000 = ₹30,13,000

b. Breakeven Point

  • Total Investment: ₹65,00,000
  • Annual Net Savings: ₹30,13,000
  • Years to Breakeven: ₹65,00,000 / ₹30,13,000 ≈ 2.16 years (approximately 3 years)

Summary

  • Total Investment in the First Year: ₹73,00,000
  • Breakeven Year: Year 3

Conclusion

Implementing an RTLS in a 350-bed hospital can significantly enhance operational efficiency and patient care. Despite an initial investment of ₹73,00,000, the hospital can expect to reach breakeven in approximately three years, achieving substantial annual savings thereafter. The expected improvements in bed utilization and workflow coordination are crucial for driving this ROI.

Why surgical instrument tracking is must-have for a hospital now

surgical scissors left inside the body after operation – photo courtesy – Researchgate

In a recent shocking news update, a woman was found to carry a retained surgical scissors inside her body for 12 long years. It was sheer negligence that happened 12 years ago in an operation that removed her appendix. The lady experienced sustained pain in her body for 12 long years.
This created a huge uproar in the state with people demanding prosecution and cancellation of license.

The fact is that it is a simple procedural mistake but it is also true that it carries a huge ramification for the hospital and the doctor involved. It can cause both the surgeon and the hospital significant reputation damage if not the business. If you are wondering if this happens only rarely, US National Library of Medicine asserts that for every 10,000 operation 1.3 such incidences can happen in average. In India the number most likely is much higher.

Can a hospital eliminate this risk?

Yes, absolutely. A hospital needs to upgrade its CSSD operation to ensure that after every operation all instruments returned are tallied against used list of instruments. It is tedious considering the number of operations a hospital has to do every day.

RTLS makes it fast and error-free

Using a special autoclave-safe RFID tag attached to every surgical instrument, a hospital CSSD can track every instrument. INDTRAC provides custom-made solution to suit the special needs for every CSSD.

Read more here.

A new RTLS App for Hospital launched!

RTLS App for Hospital

INDTRAC for Hospital earlier was available only as browser App. Now it is available as native App in Google Play store. While you still can continue to use the browser App, the new native App enhances the experience by an order of magnitude.

The App also adds  a few very important functionalities that were missing in the web version.

Examples include :
1. Adding custom reminder : Medical equipment need regular maintenance and AMC renewal. Keeping track of different dates for so many equipment can be error-prone if not tedious. The App lets you feed those details into the system for each equipment once. Automatic reminder will be sent to your team at a regularity you choose. It will ensure that team won’t miss any of those renewal windows.

2. Uploading the AMC reports. : The app lets you scan the report and upload it so that others can use it as reference.

3. The App works in unison with other INDTRAC Apps which means admin function can be segregated based on the service one administers. For example to monitor only the ambient temperatures and humidity, you can use only the INDTRAC Sensor where as other RTLS functionalities can be availed in the INDTRAC Hospital App.

More details are available at our product page. The App also can be downloaded from Google Play store. You are most welcome to download and try yourself. However to appreciate full power of the App, you would need the sensors and wireless readers to be fixed in your premise. We help our customers to run the pilots before full deployment.

Did you know QR code can cut your shipment errors and returns drastically?

QR Code for shipment trackingIf you are a factory owner or goods producers, this may be for you. Small businesses often struggle with shipment errors and returns. Manual processes and human error can lead to picking the wrong items, sending to incorrect addresses, or damaged goods arriving. These issues not only cost money in return shipping and processing fees but also damage customer satisfaction.

QR code can make tracking your shipment accurate and super-easy

A smartphone App is the lightest solution you can imagine. Using the App, you can generate QR code for each shipment and also use the same app to track them from anywhere. Each time someone scans, the location and time is recorded in the App. That way anyone in your office can track the item in almost near real-time.

  • Unique Identification: Each product or package would have a unique QR code attached. This code encodes information like the product ID, order number or any other fields you like to include.
  • Scanning for Accuracy: Warehouse staff can scan the QR code with a smartphone during picking and packing. This ensures the correct item is selected and placed in the appropriate package.
  • Real-Time Tracking: More scan adds more real-time updates. This transparency helps identify potential delays or delivery exceptions.

A 2021 survey by Zebra Technologies revealed that 83% of businesses using QR codes reported a decrease in picking errors.

A 2020 study by Deloitte found that real-time shipment tracking with QR codes reduced shipment returns by 15%.

Incidentally INDTRAC QR App does exactly what is needed. What’s more? We will help you in case you need any assistance in setting up at no cost to you.

Cost Savings through QR Code-Based Asset Tracking

QR Code based Asset inventory
In the ever-evolving landscape of business operations, efficiency and cost-effectiveness are paramount. Many companies are turning to innovative solutions like QR code-based asset tracking to streamline processes and reduce operational costs. Let’s explore how adopting this technology has enabled businesses across various sectors to achieve significant savings.

Case Study 1: Manufacturing Sector

Company Profile:
A medium-sized manufacturing firm with multiple production facilities and extensive machinery.

Challenge:
The company faced challenges in tracking the usage and maintenance schedules of machinery across different sites. Manual record-keeping led to discrepancies, delays in maintenance, and increased downtime.

Solution:
Implemented a QR code-based asset tracking system integrated with their existing maintenance management software. Each machine was tagged with a QR code linked to a digital profile containing maintenance logs, service schedules, and operational data.

Results:

  • Reduced Downtime: By monitoring maintenance needs in real-time, the company minimized unplanned downtime by 30%, leading to increased productivity.
  • Improved Maintenance Efficiency: Scheduled maintenance became more efficient, reducing overall maintenance costs by 20% annually.
  • Inventory Optimization: Better tracking of spare parts and consumables lowered inventory costs by 15%.

Case Study 2: Logistics and Transportation

Company Profile:
A logistics company specializing in warehousing and distribution services.

Challenge:
Tracking and managing a vast inventory of goods across multiple warehouses and during transit was cumbersome and prone to errors. This led to inefficiencies in order fulfillment and increased operational costs.

Solution:
Deployed a QR code-based inventory management system that enabled real-time tracking from warehouse to delivery.

Results:

  • Enhanced Inventory Accuracy: Reduced inventory discrepancies by 25%, minimizing stockouts and overstock situations.
  • Optimized Route Planning: Improved asset visibility allowed for optimized route planning, reducing fuel consumption and transportation costs by 15%.
  • Faster Order Processing: Streamlined order picking and fulfillment processes increased operational efficiency, leading to faster turnaround times and improved customer satisfaction.

Case Study 3: Healthcare Sector

Company Profile:
A network of hospitals and clinics facing challenges in managing medical equipment and supplies.

Challenge:
Ensuring timely availability and tracking the usage of medical equipment and supplies across different healthcare facilities was critical for patient care and operational efficiency.

Solution:
Implemented a QR code-based asset tracking system integrated with their inventory management software and patient records system.

Results:

  • Improved Asset Utilization: Optimized usage of medical equipment reduced unnecessary purchases and extended equipment lifespan, resulting in cost savings of 18%.
  • Enhanced Patient Care: Timely availability of critical supplies improved patient care outcomes and reduced emergency procurement costs.
  • Regulatory Compliance: Maintained compliance with healthcare regulations by tracking equipment maintenance and usage history seamlessly.

Conclusion

Across diverse industries, adopting QR code-based asset tracking systems has proven instrumental in driving operational efficiency and achieving substantial cost savings. Whether in manufacturing, logistics, healthcare, or beyond, companies have reaped the benefits of real-time visibility, improved inventory management, and streamlined operations. By leveraging technology to enhance asset tracking capabilities, businesses not only reduce costs but also position themselves for sustained growth and competitiveness in today’s dynamic marketplace.

Ready to transform your operations and unlock cost-saving opportunities? Try INDTRAC QR App for free. Call us for any help you need.

Your Cold Chain just got smarter with real-time Tracking and enhanced views

We are thrilled to announce a major update to INDTRAC Sensor, your go-to app for real-time cold chain monitoring! This exciting new release brings a suite of powerful features designed to elevate your cold chain management experience to the next level.

Unprecedented Visibility with Real-Time Tracking

INDTRAC Sensor now offers comprehensive real-time tracking of temperature, humidity, and GPS location for your Reefer containers. Imagine having a bird’s-eye view of your entire cold chain operation, knowing exactly where your shipments are and the precise environmental conditions they’re experiencing. This unparalleled level of insight empowers you to make informed decisions and ensure product integrity every step of the way.

Enhanced Views for Every Need

We understand that different users require different perspectives. INDTRAC Sensor now offers a variety of enhanced views to cater to your specific needs:

Indoor Map View:  Visualise all your sensors fixed in all the cold chambers on the indoor map, see their current status and historical charts – all in real time.
Container View: This gives full list of Reefer Containers. Select a container, find where the container is on the Google Map now. Also read current temperature and humidity. It also tells you how recent the sensor data is.
Sensor View: Get a quick and concise overview of all your sensors, identifying potential issues or areas requiring attention.

Effortless Management at Your Fingertips

INDTRAC Sensor now features in-app administration for both sensors and Reefer containers. Manage sensor configurations, set up alerts, and configure your Reefer containers directly from the app, saving you valuable time and streamlining your workflow.

INDTRAC Sensor : Your Trusted Partner in Cold Chain Excellence

With this latest update, INDTRAC Sensor solidifies its position as the most comprehensive and user-friendly cold chain monitoring solution available. We’re committed to providing you with the tools you need to optimize your operations, minimize risk, and ensure the highest quality standards for your temperature-sensitive products.

Ready to Experience the INDTRAC Sensor Advantage?

Download the latest version of INDTRAC Sensor today and discover a new era of cold chain control. We’re confident that these powerful new features will help you achieve greater efficiency, peace of mind, and unwavering confidence in your cold chain operations.

Digitalise your manual asset inventory now

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If you are manually keeping track of your assets inventory or using barcodes to keep track in old-fashioned way, we have good news for you.

INDTRAC App now lets you import all your barcodes and use the App to track those assets. And when you decide to move on from old barcodes to the new world of QR Codes, INDTRAC App will keep them ready in advance.

Simply download the codes, print them in your printer at whatever size you wish and start fixing them on your assets. Your inventory would be QR-code-ized in no time. You do not need barcode reader, computer or anything. Your staff use their smartphones alone to manage your assets now! Total freedom from being stuck to a computer or even a place.

The App is all that you need to manage your assets from anywhere in the world!

Just download the App, register your site and voila, your digital asset inventory is ready.

And if you need a minor customization of the App, or you need customization of the QR Code, just call us or email us. We will deliver it to you in no time.

So what are you waiting for? Start your warehouse revolution now!

Continuous temperature monitoring in cold storage chain

cold storage room

Temperature Monitoring in Cold Storage: Challenges

Data Gaps and Inaccessibility: Traditional temperature monitoring systems often rely on manual data recording or single-point sensors. This can lead to data gaps, inaccurate readings, and delayed response to temperature fluctuations. Additionally, accessing real-time data remotely can be cumbersome and require specialized software, hindering responsiveness and decision-making.

Scalability and Integration: Cold storage facilities need to monitor vast areas with multiple temperature zones. Implementing traditional systems across such a large scale can be costly and complex, requiring extensive wiring and maintenance. Integration with existing infrastructure and data management systems can also pose challenges.

Opportunities:

IoT and Wireless Solutions: The rise of the Internet of Things (IoT) presents opportunities for real-time, remote monitoring with wireless sensors and networks. These solutions can provide data from multiple points within the storage facility, enabling comprehensive temperature mapping and proactive alerts.

Even if your cold storage runs at -30ºC, we have the right sensor for you. It's not temperature alone, we can help you monitor humidity or air quality in a closed space continuously, be it in hospital chamber or cold storage chamber.

AI-powered Analytics and Predictive Maintenance: By leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning, cold storage facilities can analyze temperature data to predict potential issues and optimize energy consumption.

How INDTRAC helps?

With INDTRAC Sensor App, cold chambers can now collect and monitor temperature data wirelessly in real time. The App lets you see current data, watch trend over last two days, set custom thresholds to monitor and generate daily reports from anywhere. INDTRAC works with BLE sensors from all leading vendors so that you can choose the right sensor for you. The solution is designed keeping in mind users in Europe as well as Asia. You can buy sensors from local vendor and use INDTRAC App to monitor your facility.

Call INDTRAC today and see how IOT based continuous monitoring revolutionizes cold storage management.

Custom QR Code design for enterprise

Recently we received a request where the customer needed to track hundred thousands of assets under its inventory. They added a few of constraints.  One of them was that the tags had to withstand extreme weather. The environmental temperature ranged above normal range of temperature. It also had to be water-proof.

They had another requirement, the tag had to have some specific text and design. We felt that this may be a need for many enterprises struggling to inventory their assets with a really low budget but with a specific design requirement. The simplest of them would be that the tag show the logo of the enterprise.

To cater to these needs, we launched our bulk QR Code design service where INDTRAC will deliver finished QR Code tags with custom design and size to the customer. Needless to add, these tags would be usable with INDTRAC QR App for tracking those assets.

As usual our promise for the low cost of ownership for the customer holds for this service as well.