Autoclaving Guidelines
Autoclaving is a critical method for sterilizing laboratory materials, particularly when handling potentially hazardous biological waste. By using saturated steam under pressure, autoclaves effectively eliminate microorganisms, playing a key role in maintaining a safe laboratory environment.
Key considerations include:
- Training and Safety: Proper training is essential to operate autoclaves safely, given the risks associated with high temperatures and pressure. All users must follow established safety protocols to prevent injury and ensure effective sterilization.
- Applications: Autoclaves serve a dual purpose - sterilizing equipment before use and decontaminating biohazardous waste before disposal. This functionality makes them indispensable in both research and waste management workflows.
- Biohazard Waste Guidelines: Cultures, plates, vials, and other materials containing pathogenic organisms must be autoclaved according to institutional guidelines to render them non-infectious, reducing the risk of exposure during handling and transport.
- Factors Influencing Sterility: Sterilization effectiveness depends on several variables, including load, volume, contamination level, material type, and moisture content. Understanding these factors is crucial for consistent and reliable results.
Autoclaving is a cornerstone of laboratory safety and biohazard waste management. Adherence to proper procedures and guidelines is essential to protect personnel, ensure compliance, and safeguard the environment.
Questions or concerns shall be directed to Environmental Health & Safety (EHS) at
safety@tcu.edu or 817-257-5395.
Maintenance and Inspection
Autoclave maintenance and repairs should always be performed by a certified vendor.
In Texas, annual inspections are mandated to ensure proper sterilization and safety.
It is the responsibility of each respective department to maintain, repair, and annually
inspect their autoclave.
Recordkeeping
Documentation of user training, waste treatment, monthly sterilization validation,
maintenance, service, and annual inspections shall be retained by the Principal Investigator
(PI) or respective department and made accessible upon request.
Resources & Forms
Autoclave Standard Operating Procedures Template
Autoclave Waste Treatment Record
Autoclave Sterilization Validation Record
Autoclave Training Log
Training
Assignment of online safety courses is overseen by EHS and accessible through the
online HSI/SafetySkills Learning Management System. A TCU email address and ID is
required for access. In-person training is provided by the laboratory PI. For further
training information contact EHS at safety@tcu.edu or call 817-257-5395.
Autoclave Safety - LAB-9.2
This online course provides individuals with an overview of the hazards associated
with autoclaves and recommended safe practices for using autoclaves. The relevant
standards addressed in this course include OSHA's General Duty Clause.