Assured Sterilisation

In the past it was generally assumed that a load that went through a sterilisation cycle would come out completely sterile. However, advances in validation processes and ever more demanding loads have proved that validation is now an essential part of Microbiology Lab practice. Just because the steriliser has finished its cycle, it cannot be assumed that sterilisation has been achieved in every part of the load. With laboratories sterilising what could potentially be harmful loads, prior to disposal, it is imperative that they can be sure that when the cycle has finished, absolutely no part of the sterilised materials remain contaminated. More often than not, a laboratory will work to a set of procedures as laid down by their governing bodies or standards agency, with the onus being on them to conduct a thorough independent validation, to enable them to provide evidence that what they are disposing of is indeed safe. Environmental concerns are now at the forefront of good laboratory practice, and as such there is now even more pressure for labs to ensure that they comply fully with all relevant legislation regarding waste disposal. A great deal of organisations are moving away from disposal through incineration, so now more than ever, proof that loads are sterile is of utmost importance.