Autoclaving is one of the most dependable methods for decontaminating laboratory materials or waste. Autoclaves use saturated steam under pressure to achieve high temperatures to kill microorganisms. Attaining the proper temperature for the proper length of time is essential for an effective kill. Items for autoclaving CAN Cultures & Stocks Culture Dishes & Related devices Discarded live & Attenuated Vaccines Contaminated soiled items (petri dishes, pipettes, gloves, paper towels) Items for sterilization such as glassware, media, water, equipment Infected small animal carcasses CANNOT Materials containing solvents, volatile or corrosive chemicals Material contaminated with chemotherapeutic agents Radioactive material Heat sensitive material, lab equipment or reagents to be re-used Packaging Use only APPROVED AUTOCLAVE BAGS. Autoclave bags (orange) are available • from the Medical Storeroom. (Red Biohazard bags are designed for incineration, and not suitable for autoclave use) Containers must be heat resistant •
Autoclaving is one of the most dependable methods for decontaminating laboratory materials or waste. Autoclaves use saturated steam under pressure to achieve high temperatures to kill microorganisms. Attaining the proper temperature for the proper length of time is essential for an effective kill. Items for autoclaving CAN Cultures & Stocks Culture Dishes & Related devices Discarded live & Attenuated Vaccines Contaminated soiled items (petri dishes, pipettes, gloves, paper towels) Items for sterilization such as glassware, media, water, equipment Infected small animal carcasses CANNOT Materials containing solvents, volatile or corrosive chemicals Material contaminated with chemotherapeutic agents Radioactive material Heat sensitive material, lab equipment or reagents to be re-used Packaging • Use only APPROVED AUTOCLAVE BAGS. Autoclave bags (orange) are available from the Medical Storeroom. (Red Biohazard bags are designed for incineration, and not suitable for autoclave use) • Containers must be heat resistant
Autoclave-Biological-Indicator-8-31-11.docx