SOP FOR AUTOCLAVE OPERATION PROCEDURE AND CLEANING

 

SOP FOR AUTOCLAVE OPERATION PROCEDURE AND CLEANING

1.0 Purpose:

To describe the procedure for cleaning and operation of autoclave.

2.0 Scope:

This sop applies to all autoclaves that are used to decontaminate infectious waste material.

3.0 Responsibility:

3.1. Microbiologist:

3.2. Quality Control Manager:

4.0      Procedure:

Operation Procedure:

4.1   Open the lid of autoclave.

4.2   Remove both the perforated steel baskets from autoclave.

4.3   Pour enough water (12L) into autoclave such that heating coils can completely submerged in water. If re-sterilization is needed, please re-pour water.

4.4   Reload the stainless steel baskets back into autoclave.

4.5   Load the material to be sterilized into the basket. Test sterilization indicator is placed every time with the material to be sterilized.

4.6   Do not overload the autoclave.

4.7   Close the lid and clamp the screws in place.

4.8   Choose the appropriate cycle limit for the material. Preset the time and temperature as per requirements.

4.9   Now press the start key to start the process.

4.10      When the process done. Pressure gauge show “0” reading. Open the lid and unload the sterilization material while wear the heat insulating gloves.

Cleaning procedure

4.11      After the completion of cycle turn off the power switch. 

4.12      Unload the autoclave when the pointer of the pressure gauge return to “ZERO” position, one mint later open the cover, take the sterilization pail out.

4.13      After cool, rinse the entire chamber & trays with distal water. Use brush for cleaning if required.

4.14      Clean the autoclave daily after completion of work with a cloth moistened in disinfectant solution.

4.15      Record the cleaning in equipment cleaning register.

5.0        Precautions:

5.1.1    Do not open the lid of autoclave when cycle is running.

5.1.2     Take care during the handling of the articles as they will be hot.

5.1.3     There should be enough water in the unit heating coils should be completely submerged in water.

5.1.4     Please don’t sterilize different kinds of objects at the same time, such as surgical dressing and solution, rubber goods and instruments.  

5.0 Related Documents:

5.1.    Autoclave cleaning record register

5.2.    Autoclave operation record register

6.0 Distribution:

6.1     Central Quality File.

6.2     Quality control Manager

6.3.       Microbiologist