Autoclaves need to be serviced and tested at different intervals depending on their usage and the type of materials they process.
For autoclaves used to inactivate substances such as human pathogens, blood, tissues, and clinical samples, testing is required after every 40 hours of use.
Autoclaves used to sterilize other materials must be tested every six months.
Additionally, routine preventative maintenance should be conducted on a consistent basis, which could be monthly, quarterly, or annually, to ensure the equipment remains in proper working order.
How Often Do Autoclaves Need to Be Serviced? 4 Key Intervals You Should Know
1. Testing Frequency for Different Uses
High-Risk Materials: Autoclaves handling high-risk materials like human pathogens, blood, tissues, and clinical samples require more frequent testing.
According to the Florida Administrative Code, these autoclaves must be tested after every 40 hours of use.
This frequent testing ensures that the sterilization process is effective and that the autoclave is functioning correctly when dealing with hazardous materials.
Other Materials: For autoclaves used to sterilize less hazardous materials, the testing frequency is less stringent.
These autoclaves must be tested every six months.
This schedule is considered sufficient to maintain the integrity of the sterilization process for less critical applications.
2. Routine Preventative Maintenance
Regular maintenance is crucial to prevent damage from particulates in steam and poor water quality, which can lead to system downtime, poor processing performance, and expensive repairs.
Maintenance inspections should cover critical components such as heating coils, contactors, steam traps, and safety valves.
The frequency of these inspections can vary from monthly to annually, depending on the specific needs and usage patterns of the autoclave.
3. Use of Biological Indicators
To validate the effectiveness of an autoclave, biological indicators are used.
These indicators contain spores of G. stearothermophilus, which are highly resistant to sterilization.
By placing these indicators in the autoclave during a cycle and then culturing them to check for survival, the effectiveness of the sterilization process can be confirmed.
If the spores do not survive, it indicates that the autoclave is operating correctly.
4. Operational Checks and Monitoring
Autoclaves should be monitored for proper pressure and temperature during operation.
Modern autoclaves are equipped with devices to maintain and record these parameters, but manual checks are also necessary to ensure that the autoclave is functioning optimally.
In summary, the servicing and testing frequency of autoclaves depends on the risk level of the materials being processed and the operational demands of the equipment.
Regular maintenance and validation using biological indicators are essential to ensure the safety and effectiveness of the sterilization process.
Continue Exploring, Consult Our Experts
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