Why a Regular Autoclave Cleaning Schedule Is Important

Autoclaves are extremely important in any business sector that requires the sterilization of equipment or instruments. The autoclave is what ensures that everything is sanitary and sterilized. The autoclave is what protects the users, the clients or patients, and anyone else who walks in the room. The autoclave must always be in good repair and ready to receive its next batch. This is why the autoclave needs regular maintenance and inspection.
In addition, the equipment being sterilized should be precleaned and free from dirt, organic tissue, or blood before going inside the autoclave. If the contents to be sterilized in the autoclave have any debris they can not only damage the sterilizer but they can impact the integrity of the sterilization cycle. Ultrasonic cleaners are one way to preclean instruments before going inside your autoclave.

Always inspect the door gasket for any signs of wear or cracking. The gasket is very important to create a perfect seal. The mating surface and the gasket should be regularly cleaned with a detergent like Fantastik using a sponge or a cloth. An autoclave must seal properly to work. You need to pay attention to any problems with the seal and address them immediately.

Regular cleaning of the autoclave protects staff, patients, and customers from germs. Poor autoclave maintenance can not only cause the autoclave to fail, but it can make your autoclave not sterilize what it is supposed to and it can shorten its service life.

Frequent autoclave maintenance using a regular timetable ensures that the device works efficiently and achieves the sterilization goals required by your business or medical establishment.

It is recommended that the autoclaves be cleaned daily, monthly, and weekly. All the cleaning protocols given by medical experts and the manufacturers should be strictly followed.

Autoclaving provides steam and heat that destroys germs. That same moisture and heat can over time wear on the equipment itself. That is the one main reason why frequent cleaning and inspection is necessary. The autoclave has to withstand high heat, pressure, and water, over and over.

Yearly maintenance should be done by professionals in consultation with either the manufacturer of your device or the company you bought it from. When the autoclave is cleaned, several things will happen.Sensors will be calibrated, damaged parts will be replaced, and all electrical components will be tested. Filters will be cleaned or replaced.

Keeping the autoclave clean is very important. Always remember to clean the rack and trays with something that will not scratch or damage it. And rinse your equipment carefully and dry before reuse.

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.