How to Be Safe When Working With an Autoclave Read more: How to Be Safe When Working With an Autoclave | eHow.com http://www.ehow.com/how_7390257_safe-working-autoclave.html#ixzz1wdBJpGIk

Autoclaves operate by creating steam under very high pressure; the steam then penetrates the objects inside the autoclave and the moist heat kills microorganisms by protein denaturation. The potential for injury while working with an autoclave includes burns and scalding, bodily injury if the autoclave explodes and exposure to dangerous organisms due to insufficient decontamination of biologically hazardous material. The single most helpful behavior you can practice when working with an autoclave is paying attention to details.

1

Wear a buttoned lab coat, eye protection and closed toe shoes when working with an autoclave. Check the log for the autoclave and note that it is functioning properly before you use it. All maintenance checks and repairs should have been recorded and logs kept for five years.

2

Confirm that all items going into the autoclave meet the safety requirements for autoclaves and that they don't include sharps, radioactive or red bag wastes or volatile chemicals. Use the correct packaging for items to be autoclaved such as clear or orange autoclave bags. Place the filled bags in appropriate secondary containers.

3

Avoid overfilling the autoclave or containers in the autoclave. Material should not touch the walls or ceiling of the autoclave. Don't mix clean and waste materials in the same load. Add water carefully to the autoclave bags, making sure the bags will vent properly. All packaging should allow steam penetration and escape. Loosen lids on jars.

4

Secure the autoclave door correctly. Select the settings appropriate for the materials you've loaded, and record in the user log. Run the autoclave.

5

Wait until the cycle is finished and the pressure reading is zero before opening the door to vent the steam. Let items cool before removing them from the autoclave. Wear heat-resistant protective gloves along with your other PPE when removing autoclaved items from a hot machine.

Tips & Warnings

• Place autoclave tape loosely over the loose caps of jars. The tape will change colors to indicate a complete decontamination. The loose caps allow steam to escape and prevent the jars from exploding.
• Read the owner's manual for your particular autoclave and familiarize yourself with its specific protocols.
• Follow instructions exactly to prevent dangerous explosions and injury.