Maintaining an autoclave in a lab involves several key practices: regular preventative maintenance, proper user training, adherence to manufacturer guidelines, and maintaining a detailed log of operations.
4 Essential Steps to Maintain Your Lab Autoclave
Preventative Maintenance
Regular maintenance is crucial to prevent damage from particulates in steam and poor water quality.
Laboratories should schedule comprehensive inspections that cover essential components such as heating coils, contactors, steam traps, and safety valves.
These inspections can be conducted monthly, quarterly, or annually, depending on the lab's needs and the manufacturer's recommendations.
This proactive approach helps ensure the autoclave remains in proper working order, minimizing downtime and costly repairs.
User Training
All users must be trained before operating the autoclave.
This training should be documented and maintained in the lab.
The training must cover the proper use of personal protective equipment and a thorough understanding of the autoclave's controls and operation manual.
Since controls and loading characteristics can vary between manufacturers, familiarity with the specific model is essential for safe and efficient operation.
Adherence to Manufacturer Guidelines
It is highly recommended to keep a waterproofed or laminated copy of the manufacturer’s operation manual in the room with the autoclave.
This ensures that operators have immediate access to the correct procedures and settings for different types of loads and materials.
The size of the load and the materials being sterilized will determine the appropriate cycle settings, making the manual an indispensable resource.
Maintaining a Log
Laboratories should maintain a detailed autoclave log sheet as recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Organization for Safety and Asepsis Prevention.
This log should record the time and date of each operation, the contents of the load, and the cycle type.
Keeping such records is essential for monitoring the autoclave's usage and performance, aiding in timely maintenance and troubleshooting.
By implementing these practices, labs can ensure that their autoclaves remain effective and reliable for maintaining aseptic techniques and reducing the risk of contamination.
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