Maintenance of the Autoclave in TB Labs

Autoclaves are pretty simple to use but there are a few steps for better maintenance of an autoclave.

A. Daily Maintenance​

• Check that the lid/ door gasket is clean​. After each cycle of an autoclave, the lid must be cleaned properly.
• Check if there is any crack in the gasket​. If a crack is there, the instrument should not be used.
• Check for leaks while the autoclave is running. If bubbles are coming out, it indicates leaking from autoclave. ​Such an autoclave must be tagged as “Not Approved for Infectious Waste” and should not be used.
• The autoclave and work area must be cleaned after every use​.
• Sensor must be checked after every use and there should not be any damage to the sensor.
• The work area must be disinfected according to the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for disinfection.

B. Weekly Preventive Maintenance

• ​The drain strainer must be removed and cleaned, if necessary.
• Whenever the drain strainer is cleaned, its entry into the logbook must be done.
• The operator must check the operation of the pressure release safety valve to verify proper function. During this check, the operator must keep himself away from the release valve exhaust to prevent a burn injury. ​

Resources

• Tuberculosis Laboratory Biosafety Manual, 2012, WHO.
• Mycobacteriology Laboratory Manual, 2014, WHO.

Kindly provide your valuable feedback on the page to the link provided HERE