Infection Control Service
We provide a comprehensive Validation report compliant to
AS 5369:2023
IQ: Installation Qualification
OQ: Operational Qualification
PQ: Performance Qualification
Click the dropdown box below each question to find out more.
Every 12 months or earlier if major components are replaced.
If you sterilise cannulated instruments, you MUST use a Helix PCD prior to running your daily sterilising cycles.
If you sterilise wrapped instruments, you MUST use a B&D test prior to running your daily sterilising cycles.
Class 1 indicators are on the outside or every Sterilising puch and Steri tape and would therefore be used every load.
Class 4,5,6 indicators are optional, but the use of at least one per load to be Sterilised is preferred.
NOTE: If there is no printed cycle record or the autoclave validation is out of date, a class 4 or 6 must be used in every pack and every cycle.
An autoclave must be serviced and calibrated every 12 months.
How much you can sterilise in an autoclave is determined by the weight and mass of the item to be sterilised.
If the item is heavy and large, then one item per autoclave shelf is advised.
At no point should the items (in pouches) over lap, as it will inhibit drying, and the efficiency of the sterilising procedure.
Your autoclave is designed to sterilise reusable instruments used in podiatry, medical, dental, nail and beauty clinics. It is your legal responsibility to ensure safe provisions are in place for the use of sterile healthcare products.
Confirmation that the autoclave has been validated and is performing accurately within the manufacturers specifications is also your responsibility.
1. Service and Safety Inspection (Optional)
2. Calibration Check, Chamber Mapping and Operational Test
*For the Calibration Check, the three major parameters tested are temperature, pressure and time. The accuracy of your sterilisers gauges/digital displays are checked against our test instruments.
*Chamber Mapping; which must be done if the cold spot in the chamber has not been previously identified, will need to be carried out to enable us to complete your load validation.
*The Operational Check ensures that all functions on the steriliser are working correctly.
3. Validation
*Validation is carried out by placing biological indicators adjacent to temperature sensors within the chamber and packages.
*The relevant cycle is then run and checked using a minimum of three consecutive replicate cycles.