Calibration Frequency Recommendations for Medical Autoclaves

There is no one clear answer or recommendation for calibration frequency beyond at least once a year. And the reason for this is that there are a number of variables that will determine when your individual autoclave needs to be calibrated. In today’s blog article we are going to talk about some of these variables not in any specific order. 

Usage 

This is a big factor. How much is the autoclave being used. How many cycles are being run and how often. In general, the more the autoclave is used, the more it needs to be calibrated. However, even if the autoclave is rarely used, it still has to be calibrated regularly. 

Manufacturer’s Recommendations 

We should always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations, and different manufacturers will recommend different schedules for calibrations for different models. So, barring any other information, go with what the manufacturer says. 

Regulatory Requirements 

There may be regulatory requirements in your jurisdiction or in your setting or environment that dictates a (more frequent) schedule for autoclave calibration, such as in a hospital. 

Age of Equipment 

As equipment ages, and near either the need for repair or the end of a service life, it likely needs to be calibrated more frequently to make sure it is still working perfectly. So, if all things are equal, an older autoclave needs more calibration than a new one. 

Interestingly enough, autoclave size is not a factor, and larger autoclaves do not necessarily need to be calibrated more than smaller ones. One consideration not to forget is to always keep good records of calibration: who did it, when it was done, why it was done, etc. 

If you need help choosing, repairing, maintaining, installing, operating, or validating an autoclave, this is our business and area of expertise for many years. Give us a call, in western Canada at (888) 818-4847. We can help with every aspect of autoclaves including choosing the right one for you. 

Alpha Scientific supplies, installs, and services medical equipment in western Canada. If you have any questions about this article or would like to talk to us about medical equipment, please call our toll-free number, (888) 818-4847, or email us at sales@alphascientific.ca.