Gamma irradiation is a physical means of sterilisation or decontamination where products are exposed to gamma rays. The gamma rays, which are a form of electromagnetic radiation of very short-wave lengths, act as a source of ionising energy that destroys bacteria and pests. The isotope Cobalt-60 is the most common source of gamma rays for irradiation processing and is used by Steritech. The Cobalt-60 is manufactured specifically for the irradiation process and is housed in specially designed chambers operating to strict standards and regulations.