Basic Autoclave Safety Precautions
- Prior to operating an autoclave, laboratory personnel should undergo comprehensive training customized to the particular make and model of the unit.
- Always wear personal protective equipment — a lab coat, heat-resistant gloves, and safety glasses or goggles — and close-toed shoes. Both the lab coat and gloves should be long enough to prevent any skin on the arm from being exposed. ...
Full Answer
What are the best tips for operating an autoclave?
Prior to operating an autoclave, laboratory personnel should undergo comprehensive training customized to the particular make and model of the unit. Always wear personal protective equipment — a lab coat, heat-resistant gloves, and safety glasses or goggles — and close-toed shoes.
What are the safety risks of autoclaves?
Autoclaves are sterilizers using high pressure and high temperature steam. The potential safety risks for the operators are: • Steam burns -from residual steam coming out from autoclave and materials on completion of cycle • Hot fluid scalds from boiling liquids and spillage in autoclave. • Hand and arm injuries when closing the autoclave door.
Can you put a sealed container in an autoclave?
Do not seal containers, as the increased pressure within an autoclave can present an explosion hazard (unless you have a special cycle that is specifically designed for sealed containers) Do not open the door to an autoclave if there is water running out of the bottom.
What should I do if an autoclave aborts a cycle?
Never attempt to force the safety lock mechanism open in order to retrieve goods from an autoclave that has aborted a cycle. If the autoclave vents steam into the room, liquid pools underneath the autoclave, or the autoclave emits smoke and sets off the fire alarm, use the three-phase power disconnect to turn off power to the generator.
Which of the following precautions must be followed when opening an autoclave?
Wear safety glasses, a lab coat with long sleeves, closed-toed shoes, and heat-resistant gloves. Open the door slowly and only slightly and allow steam to escape. Allow items to cool in the autoclave for at least 10 minutes before fully opening the door.
What is the principle and precautions of autoclave?
The autoclave works on the principle of moist heat sterilization. The high pressure inside the chamber increases the boiling point of water for the sterilization of equipment. The higher pressure also ensures the rapid penetration of heat into the deeper parts of equipment.
Why do we allow to cool before opening the autoclave?
Wait until the autoclave has cooled prior to opening the door. Most autoclaves have safety interlocks that prevent the door from opening when the temperature inside is greater than 80°C; however, a puff of steam may be ejected if the autoclave is opened immediately after the cycle.
How do you open an autoclave?
Open the door slowly, just a crack at first. Keep head and body well behind the door, using it as a shield against any escaping steam. When no more escaping steam is visible, step back and slowly swing the door fully open. Unload the chamber and inspect for spills.
What should you watch out for when opening the door of an autoclave after a cycle?
Do not open the door when a sterilization cycle is in process, as this can cause the cycle to abort. Do not open the autoclave door until the pressure has reached zero and the temperature is below 100°C to avoid burns or scalding. Never stand directly in front of the autoclave door.
What is the procedure for the use of autoclave?
Five steps of autoclave sterilizationPlace the items to be sterilized in the autoclave. The door is locked.A vacuum pump sucks the air from the chamber.The temperature reaches the correct level.Steam kills bacteria and microbes.Steam is released, the door is opened and items are ready for use.
Why do you need to wait for pressure to reach 0 psi before opening the autoclave?
Before opening the Autoclave after use, wait for the pressure gauge to drop to zero with zero time remaining before opening the door to prevent steam burns and shattered glassware: Slowly crack the seal and open the autoclave door and allow the steam to escape gradually.
What should the chamber pressure level be before opening the autoclave?
Autoclaves use saturated steam under pressure of approximately 15 pounds per square inch to achieve a chamber temperature of at least 250°F (121°C) for a prescribed time—usually 30–60 minutes. In addition to proper temperature and time, prevention of entrapment of air is critical to achieving sterility.
What common problems are faced when using an autoclave?
7 Common Autoclave Problems You Should be Aware OfThe sterilizer won't reach the temperature set-point. ... The load is damaged by the autoclave. ... Goods are not sterilized. ... The load is wet after the sterilization cycle has ended — even with drying time. ... A large liquid load causes the sterilization cycle to abort.More items...
What is the purpose of opening autoclave door when it starts drying?
The sterilizer manufacturer's drying instructions should be followed; the typical recommendation is to open the door approximately one-half inch (1.25 cm) at the end of the cycle to allow moisture to escape and then initiate the drying cycle, which usually operates with the door open.
Why is autoclave not opening?
Confirm that there's no pressure or vacuum in the vessel and that all the processes inside the autoclave have been stopped properly. Swing the door safety interlock handle to the “open' position. If the handle doesn't disengage, double-check to make sure there's no pressure in the vessel.
How do you close an autoclave?
0:291:38How to open and close your Ritter M7 autoclave door - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipAnd opening the door to close use the reverse procedure. Close pushback with this end going firstMoreAnd opening the door to close use the reverse procedure. Close pushback with this end going first all the way in line up on your pins.
What is the principle behind the use of heat in sterilization?
Principle of Moist Heat sterilization Moist heat destroys microorganisms by the irreversible denaturation of enzymes and structural proteins. The temperature at which denaturation occurs varies inversely with the amount of water present.
What is the principle of hot air oven?
Hot air ovens use extremely high temperatures over several hours to destroy microorganisms and bacterial spores. The ovens use conduction to sterilize items by heating the outside surfaces of the item, which then absorbs the heat and moves it towards the center of the item.
What are the 3 types of autoclave?
When picking an autoclave, it is possible to chose between three different types: Class N, Class S and Class B.Class N autoclaves. Class N autoclaves are compact and they are for sterilizing simple materials. ... Class B autoclaves. ... Class S autoclaves.
What are the two types of autoclaves?
The two most common types of steam sterilizers are gravity displacement autoclaves and high-speed prevacuum autoclaves.
What are the risks of using an autoclave?
Autoclaves are sterilizers using high pressure and high temperature steam. The potential safety risks for the operators are: • Steam burns -from residual steam coming out from autoclave and materials on completion of cycle. • Hot fluid scalds from boiling liquids and spillage in autoclave. • Hand and arm injuries when closing the autoclave door.
What is an autoclave used for?
Autoclaves are used in laboratories to sterilize equipment, instruments, and infectious waste. All operators must receive training on the safe operation of the autoclave prior to using the equipment. Users should read and understand the owner’s manual from the particular model of autoclave that they are using.
How does an autoclave work?
Autoclaves provide a physical method for disinfection and sterilization. They work with a combination of steam, pressure and time. Autoclaves operate at high temperature and pressure in order to kill microorganisms and spores.
Where to dispose of autoclaved biohazard bags?
Place cooled autoclaved biohazard bag into regulated medical waste box. Autoclaved infectious liquids may be disposed of into the sink.
How to avoid entrapment of air in autoclave?
If necessary, place container on its side to maximize steam penetration and avoid entrapment of air. Use only autoclavable bags to package waste. Do not allow bags to touch the interior walls of the autoclave to avoid melting of plastic. Ensure sufficient liquid is packed with contents of autoclave bags if dry.
What to do when a splash hazard exists?
When a splash hazard exists, face shields and aprons must be worn. • When sterilizing liquids, use liquid cycle only and do not agitate containers of heated liquids, place containers in an autoclavable tray. • Jarring containers can cause hot-bottle explosions. Allow materials to cool before transporting.
How long does it take to cycle an autoclave?
Start your cycle and fill out the autoclave user log. A completed cycle usually takes between 1 to 1.5 hours. Check chamber/jacket pressure gauge for minimum pressure of 20 pounds per square inch (psi).
How much vacuum does an autoclave produce?
Some autoclaves are made so that a slight vacuum (4 or 5 pounds) may be produced in the chamber before the exhaust valve and door is opened and the articles removed. This helps to make the articles dry, but it is not necessary for if the autoclave is running properly, cotton plugs, dressing, and other objects will come out ...
What are the steps to use an autoclave?
The Essential Steps and Precautions that should be taken in using any Autoclave are summarized below: 1. If the steam must be generated by heating water, see that there is plenty of water in the boiler before turning on the heat. 2.
How much pressure does a steam boiler need?
When the valve is nearly closed, the pressure of steam in the chamber will quickly reach the required 15 pounds. The gas under the boiler may be lowered or the steam supply shut off enough so that the pounds pressure is constantly maintained.
What is a sterilizer control?
This is a small glass tube, with a string attached, containing a chemical which changes colour at the sterilizing temperature.
When to open exhaust valve in autoclave?
At the end of this period turn off the gas under the boiler, or shut off the steam supply and allow the autoclave to cool down. When only linens, dressing or similar materials are being sterilized, the exhaust valve may be opened to allow the steam to escape quickly; but if any liquids are present in tubes or flasks, the exhaust valve must not be opened at all until the pressure has returned to 0, for otherwise the liquids will boil violently and cotton plugs will be blown out.
When all the air has been driven out and only steam comes through the exchaust, what happens?
When all the air has thus been driven out and only steam comes through the exchaust, close the exhaust valve almost but not quite completely, so that a small amount of steam may escape from it throughout the sterilization process.
What does it mean when the color of a tube changes?
If the expected colour change has occurred, this indicates that the sterilized temperature was attained at least for a short time, and it is certain proof that the particular package from which the tube was drawn has been through the sterilizer.
How long does it take to run an autoclave?
It’s important that the unit be allowed sufficient time to reach temperature before you run a cycle (this could take up to an hour, depending on autoclave size).
What to do if autoclave drain is clogged?
If it is clogged, the strainer should be removed, cleaned, and put back in place before running the autoclave cycle.
How to prevent air pockets in autoclave?
Steam-penetrable bungs may be used. Empty glassware or other containers that do not need to be sealed should be placed on the side or upside-down to prevent air pockets from forming.
How long does it take for an autoclave to cool?
Allow steam to vent and goods to cool for approximately 10 minutes.
What is routine maintenance in autoclave?
Routine preventative autoclave maintenance is a key component of autoclave procedure. Particulates in steam and poor water quality can easily damage an autoclave, resulting in system downtime, poor processing performance and expensive repairs.
Why do you need protective gear in an autoclave?
This protective gear is designed to protect the wearer from scalds, burns and other injuries caused by residual steam, hot fluids from boiling liquids and spillage. Since laboratory autoclaves use a jacketed construction, laboratory personnel should be aware that metal surfaces are hot even when the autoclave is not actively in use. Finally, always be mindful of your hands and arms when closing the autoclave door to prevent injury.
Why do liquids get super heated?
Liquids can become super-heated by autoclave cycles due to high pressure raising the boiling point. To reduce the risk of scalds or burns, do not agitate any liquid containers or remove caps while unloading.
How long to autoclave a gallon of liquid?
Each gallon of infectious liquid must be autoclaved for one hour at 121°C at 15 pounds per square inch. Closures and lids must be loosened prior to sterilizing.
What is autoclaving in a lab?
Autoclaving Guidelines. Autoclaving is the most effective and reliable means of sterilizing laboratory materials. Autoclaving sterilizes material using saturated steam under pressure (“moist heat”). Due to the use of pressure, steam and high temperatures, there is significant risk for injury, so it's important for individuals to be properly trained ...
What temperature does an autoclave need to be to prevent steam?
Most autoclaves have safety interlocks that prevent the door from opening when the temperature inside is greater than 80°C; however, a puff of steam may be ejected if the autoclave is opened immediately after the cycle. Avoid standing directly in front of the autoclave door when it is opened after a run.
Why should dry material be separated from liquid material?
Dry material should be separated from liquid material to achieve proper sterilization. Dry material. Ensure only approved autoclave bags are used and are not filled beyond 75% of holding capacity. Most bags that are marketed as autoclavable are not suitable if closed because the steam will not penetrate them.
How to transfer infectious waste to autoclave?
Transfer infectious waste to the autoclave in a sealed secondary container. The outer surface should be decontaminated prior to transport. Avoid rough handling of waste containers in order to minimize the formation of infectious aerosols. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions when loading the chamber.
What is tape indicator?
Tape indicators (autoclave tape) with heat sensitive, chemical indicators should be used in every autoclave load. Note: the indicators only verify that the autoclave has reached normal operating temperatures; they do not indicate that the contents were heated for the appropriate length of time or at the proper pressure. Therefore, tape indicators cannot be used to prove organisms are actually killed during an autoclave run.
Where to place autoclaved infectious waste?
Place all autoclaved infectious waste into red biohazard bags for disposal.
What is an autoclave?
An autoclave is capable of rendering items sterile of any living organisms by using hot, pressurized steam. Autoclaves are commonly used in laboratories to sterilize glassware and instruments, media and solutions, and biohazardous waste. The hazards associated with autoclave use include heat, steam, and pressure. Familiarize yourself with the hazards and know how to protect yourself before operating an autoclave. Do not operate an autoclave until you have been trained how to do so safely. Watch Arizona State University’s
Where to post exposure response poster?
Post the Exposure Response Poster near the autoclave. In the event of an accident, immediately provide first aid and get help according to the instructions on the poster.
What is a quick opening door?
22 You should take several factors into account when you are assessing the suitability of door/lid opening and closing mechanisms, especially those fitted with a mechanism that allows rapid opening (called quick-opening doors), where exposure can occur quickly .
What is an autoclave?
Autoclaves are pressure vessels with lids or doors, arranged for regular access. They are used in a variety of processes, where products are placed inside the vessel and subjected to greater than atmospheric pressures and, in most cases, elevated temperatures.
Can an autoclave be fully manual?
12 Autoclave control can be fully manual but programmable electronic systems (PESs) are becoming increasingly commonplace in autoclave control. The monitoring and control facilities these systems provide may be very sophisticated. They can allow for automatic shutdown and remote monitoring, as well as a facility to indicate that a fault has been detected, at a remote location away from the autoclave. You must have the following control safeguards in place.
Autoclave Procedure Training
Autoclave Safety
- When loading, operating, or unloading an autoclave, laboratory personnel must wear the following: 1. Close-toed shoes 2. Safety glasses 3. Heat-resistant gloves that completely cover the hand and forearm 4. Lab coat This protective gear is designed to protect the wearer from scalds, burns and other injuries caused by residual steam, hot fluids from...
Container Selection
- It’s important that laboratory personnel never place sealed containers in the autoclave, as the pressure within the autoclave could cause glassware to crack or explode. Likewise, never place items that contain solvents into an autoclave, as these can emit toxic fumes when heated. Do not autoclave bleach or any cleaner containing bleach on the autoclave because chlorides within th…
Preparation, Packaging & Loading of Materials
- Laboratory personnel should observe the following autoclave procedure when loading the unit:
- Loosen the lids on any containers being loaded into the autoclave and ensure that any bags are not tied shut or otherwise sealed. Steam-penetrable bungs may be used.
- Empty glassware or other containers that do not need to be sealed should be placed on the side or upside-down to prevent air pockets from forming.
- Laboratory personnel should observe the following autoclave procedure when loading the unit:
- Loosen the lids on any containers being loaded into the autoclave and ensure that any bags are not tied shut or otherwise sealed. Steam-penetrable bungs may be used.
- Empty glassware or other containers that do not need to be sealed should be placed on the side or upside-down to prevent air pockets from forming.
- Any goods containing liquid should be placed in a secondary containment pan made of an autoclave-safe material. The pain should be large enough to contain a total spill of all the liquid contents.
Time Selection
- Sterilization time will vary depending on a number of factors, including the size of the load, the type of load, and the cycle you choose. If you are uncertain how long to run the autoclave, consult your supervisor and the autoclave manual to determine the best cycle type and appropriate runtime.
Cycle Selection
- Once the unit is loaded, be sure to observe the following autoclave working procedure: 1. If you are using a hinged-door autoclave, close the door fully, engaging the locking pins and turning the locking mechanism until it stops moving. Be mindful not to use extreme force on the locking mechanism, as this can damage the gasket or internal mechanism of the door lock. Simply tight…
Safe Removal of Materials
- Once the cycle is complete, unload the unit according to the following autoclave procedure: 1. When the cycle is complete and the pressure within the autoclave has dropped to a safe range, ensure that no one is standing near the unit and open the door one inch. This enables the autoclave to vent and goods to cool. 2. If there is a fume hood above the autoclave, make sure i…
Updating The Log Sheet
- According the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Organization for Safety and Asepsis Prevention, all laboratories should keep a detailed autoclave log sheet. Autoclave log sheets enable laboratories to create and maintain a detailed records of autoclave usage, including time and date, contents of the load and cycle type, for monitoring and maintenance purposes. If …
Autoclave Maintenance
- Routine preventative autoclave maintenance is a key component of autoclave procedure. Particulates in steam and poor water quality can easily damage an autoclave, resulting in system downtime, poor processing performance and expensive repairs. Therefore, laboratories should conduct planned maintenance inspectionson a consistent basis, be it monthly, quarterly or annu…
Contingency Plans
- Although it’s important that laboratory personnel take every precaution to eliminate safety risks, incidents can and do occur. To prevent unnecessary damage or injury, follow the safety protocols listed below. How to Proceed in the Event of an Equipment Malfunction 1. If the autoclave does not operate as expected, record the issue in the autoclave log book. Do not attempt to diagnose …