Autoclaving: Understanding Sterilization for Medical & Laboratory Use

Autoclaving is a method of sterilization used to protect people from coming into contact with medical instruments or other objects and substances that have been contaminated by prior use.

Process

• Scientists at the University of Alaska Fairbanks explains that sterilization means the complete destruction of bacteria, viruses, fungi and endospores. This is accomplished by the material being exposed to a temperature of 121 degrees Celsius, or 250 degrees Fahrenheit, for at least 15 minutes. This temperature is reached through the use of pressurized steam.

Considerations

• An autoclave can present physical and biological hazards to the user. The device should only be used after the manufacturer's manual has been read and understood. Each type of device differs from another; specific details for safe and effective use must be familiar to the autoclave user.