Drug handling device scoops Red Dot prize

A closed system transfer device (CSTD) for safe handling of hazardous drugs has been named a 2016 Red Dot Award winner

The CTSD, which is made by Equashield, received the design award from the international Red Dot jury.

The key features of the CSTD, which Equashield claims differentiate it from its competitors, include: a built-in pressure equalisation system within the syringe barrel, eliminating bulky exterior air chambers; fully encapsulated syringe, preventing major spills through accidental syringe plunger removal; metal plunger rod, preventing hazardous drug contamination from the often overlooked route of exposure common to standard plastic syringes used in competing systems; dry connectors between the syringe, vials and IV bags, ensuring no drug residue escapes the system between transfers.

Only freelance designers, design professors and specialised journalists – but not designers employed at companies potentially participating – are appointed to the jury.

“We are very proud to be recognised as a Red Dot winner this year. This acknowledgment demonstrates the superior design quality of Equashield, and shows how specific design choices can truly change the efficacy and safety of medical devices like closed systems,” said Marino Kriheli, Co-Founder of Equashield. “The design innovations of Equashield made our product extremely intuitive and easy-to-use for healthcare professionals, while also providing unprecedented protection from hazardous drug exposure.