SKH CSSU Automated Storage and Retrieval System (ASRS)
Care Process & Redesign
Technology
National Healthcare Innovation and Productivity Medals
SingHealth
9 October 2025
The aim of the project is to enhance efficiency, accuracy, and job satisfaction in the Central Sterile Supplies Unit (CSSU). The ASRS implementation in CSSU has delivered transformative improvements in operations, patient safety, and workforce efficiency.
Year Submitted: 2025
Published Date: 09 October 2025
Tags: Automation, Information ＆ Communication Technology, Robotics Process Automation, Workflow Redesign, Cost Saving, Time Saving, Care Process ＆ Redesign, Technology
About this Content
Aims
The aim of the project is to enhance efficiency, accuracy, and job satisfaction in the Central Sterile Supplies Unit (CSSU) by implementing an Automated Storage and Retrieval System (ASRS).
Background
The project addresses inefficiencies in manual instrument order entry at CSSU that led to surgical delays, impacting patient care. Human errors caused incorrect deliveries, disrupting schedules and increasing afternoon shifts, affecting work-life balance and staff retention.
Methods
The SKH CSSU implemented the ASRS, which included a 3-Arm ASRS, four Vertical Carousels (VCR), an automatic robotic loader, and a Warehouse Management System (WMS) integrated with Total Documentation (T-Doc). The project involved collaboration among CSSU, Innovation Office, Facilities Management, and Synapxe partners.
Results
The ASRS minimized manual handling, reduced administrative workloads, improved sterility monitoring, and enhanced operational efficiency. Retrieval times for surgical sets were reduced by 50%, and storage slots increased by 75%. The project resulted in significant cost savings and improved staff satisfaction.
Conclusion
The ASRS implementation in CSSU has delivered transformative improvements in operations, patient safety, and workforce efficiency. It sets a benchmark for sterile supply management and offers long-term benefits and replicability across healthcare institutions.
Lessons Learnt
Early stakeholder engagement is crucial for fostering ownership and smoother adoption of new systems. Clear communication and comprehensive training are essential for successful implementation. A small-scale pilot could have been beneficial for identifying potential challenges.
Additional Information
The project was Singapore's first implementation of ASRS in sterile storage, tailored for sterile instrument management. The system's modular architecture supports integration with emerging technologies, ensuring long-term sustainability.
Keywords
Automation, Robotics, Efficiency, Sterility, Inventory
Innovators' Details
Innovators' Details
Healthcare Cluster(s) | SingHealth |
Organization(s) Involved | Sengkang General Hospital |
Platform(s) | National Healthcare Innovation and Productivity Medals |
Healthcare Professional Group(s) | Healthcare Administration, Nursing |
Applicable Specialty or Discipline | General Medicine, Healthcare Administrators |
Project Lead(s) | Moarie Grace Tan |
Project Member(s) | Teng Jyh Lei |
Connect with this contributor!
Ms Moarie Grace Tan - tan.moarie@skh.com.sg
Project Attachment
1036_SKGH_NHIP 2025_SKH_CSSU_Automated_Storage_and_Retrieval_System_(ASRS).pdf