Autoclave Safety

The lesson will teach you about the purpose, operation and various types of autoclaves, as well as the procedures and precautions for safely operating, maintaining and inspecting autoclaves.

Upon successful completion of this course, you should have a better understanding of:

• The purpose of an autoclave.
• How autoclaves work.
• The different types of autoclaves.
• The physical and biological hazards.
• The potential injuries associated with using an autoclave, and the ways to prevent them and treat any injuries that may occur as a result of working with an autoclave.
• The proper safety precautions to take when using an autoclave. (Example: Wearing the appropriate PPE, inspecting and maintaining the autoclave, and conducting regular performance testing.)
• How to safely use an autoclave, including how to properly prepare, package, load, and unload materials.

REGULATIONS

29 CFR 1910 Subpart I – Personal Protective Equipment – 1910.132 General requirements.