What is Red Z®?

10/09/23 By Dana Szymkowiak

The Origins of Red Z® 

Safetec of America, Inc. first introduced Red Z® Fluid Solidifier to the infection control and spill management industry over 30 years ago, and this product has since significantly contributed to our company’s rich history, recognition, and success. At its core, Red Z® is formulated from a superabsorbent polymer, combined with a small amount of chlorine. Its primary function is to solidify spills effectively, reducing the risk of cross-contamination and the transmission of infectious diseases. 

During the AIDS epidemic, the transmission of HIV was a grave concern, primarily through the exchange of bodily fluids such as blood, semen, vaginal fluids, and more. Red Z® played a crucial role in minimizing these risks by providing a reliable means of containing and solidifying potentially infectious spills. 

Modern-Day Applications 

From its inception during the AIDS epidemic to its versatile applications in different industries today, Red Z® has remained a vital tool in preventing infection and promoting safety in the face of potentially hazardous spills. Red Z® is widely used to serve various industries and settings where blood and bodily fluid spills may occur. Today, Red Z® is used in healthcare facilities, research centers, dentists’ offices, mortuaries, autopsy centers, testing laboratories, blood banks, collection services, nursing homes, tattoo parlors, correctional facilities, and even police and fire departments. In each of these sectors, Red Z® plays a vital role in ensuring the safety of individuals by containing and solidifying spills. 

Red Z® is offered in multiple configurations to handle the wide variety of places Red Z® can be used.  

Needle Nose & Drop-In Pacs: Great for suction canisters.  

Shaker Tops and Standard Bottles: Portable and great for handling a spill anywhere.  

Single-Use: Perfect for kits or to keep on hand where space is limited, but spills could occur.  

Buckets: Helpful when managing large spills or keeping extra solidifier on hand. 

How Red Z® Works 

Red Z® functions by rapidly expanding upon contact with fluids, turning the spill into a gel-like substance that can be easily collected and disposed of. Furthermore, the chlorine incorporated into the formula acts as a deodorizing agent, minimizing unpleasant odors associated with certain types of waste. However, it’s essential to note that due to the chlorine content, Red Z® is not suitable for incineration or chemicalbased spills. 

For more information on Safetec’s Red Z® Solidifier, visit www.safetec.com  to explore the product range and find the right solution for your spill management needs. Stay safe, stay compliant.