Datwyler components contribute to safety syringe innovation

Elastomer components provider Datwyler has supported Roncadelle Operations in developing SafeR — an intuitive safety syringe with a needle retraction mechanism designed to eliminate needlestick injuries. 

After a single injection, the SafeR syringe automatically retracts the exposed needle, removing it from harm’s way, preventing the re-use of the syringe and promoting infection control. 

Erik Ryckalts, CEO Roncadelle Operations said: “This innovation is a result of intensive teamwork between Datwyler and Roncadelle Operations. We had a clear vision for the final product, and Datwyler contributed industry knowledge and a deep understanding of materials and medical device design to make it a reality within a very short timeline.”

SafeR — protecting lives

For better healthcare practices, SafeR features a One-Touch needle retraction mechanism upon completion of the injection, as well as Auto Disable (AD), Re-Use Prevention (RUP), and Sharp Injury Protection (SIP) safety mechanisms in one device.

The combination of these safety features not only protects patients, but also healthcare workers, waste management workers and the community from the risk of accidental needlestick injuries and syringe re-use, potentially saving millions of lives.

Best-in-class syringe components for enhanced functionality 

Datwyler advised on the bespoke syringe design. Thanks to their unique shape with a hole in the center, Datwyler‘s rubber plungers make an important contribution to ensuring that safety mechanisms function perfectly at all times and the needle is safely retracted after a single use. Datwyler’s knowledge of the disposable syringe market ensured that key material and sealing options were considered for this patented application. 

The polyisoprene-based compound used for the plungers meets the most demanding application requirements. It is not only latex-free but also ensures consistent physical properties: the hardness of the material, the tensile strength and the compression set remain unchanged for the lifetime of the syringe.

Co-engineering with the future in sight 

Developing the new safe retractable syringe required out-of-the-box thinking and components that add value without over-engineering and its associated costs. Datwyler offered Roncadelle Operations thoughtful design, vast material selection and quality-driven manufacturing processes, enabling a high-quality end product. The project was executed in a very short timeframe with the co-operation of multiple teams across three countries. 

Reliable delivery, short lead times and the spirit of collaboration underpinned the success of the fast SafeR development.

“The Datwyler team provided comprehensive support throughout the development stage, going above and beyond the traditional component supplier role. They truly believe in our product and in creating a safer environment for healthcare workers,” comments Erik Ryckalts , Roncadelle Operations. “With an innovative supplier like Datwyler, we are confident that we can make the world a safer place one syringe at a time.”

Commercial production of SafeR will start in Italy in early 2022 with a CE mark pending and expected at the beginning of 2022.