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.
Product directory
.jpg)
