What is Autoclave Calibration? 

Autoclave calibration ensures that an autoclave, which sterilise medical equipment using high-pressure steam, operates accurately and consistently within specified parameters. This process involves verifying and adjusting key performance metrics like temperature, pressure, and time to meet the required standards for effective sterilisation.

 What is Autoclave validation? 

Autoclave validation involves confirming that an autoclave consistently and effectively performs sterilisation according to established standards and protocols. This process includes a comprehensive assessment and testing of the autoclave’s ability to achieve the necessary conditions for sterilisation reliably, such as the appropriate temperature, pressure, and duration of the sterilisation period.

 What is Autoclave servicing? 

Autoclave servicing is performed according to the manufacturer's specifications, ensuring that components such as filters, seals, sensors, pumps, and the chamber are properly maintained to prevent breakdowns and faults. It's similar to taking your car in for a service. The frequency of servicing depends on the type of autoclave and how often it's used; some may need annual servicing, while others may require quarterly or bi-annual maintenance.

 Why should I calibrate and validate my Autoclave? 

Because it ensures consistent sterilisation with every use is crucial, as autoclaves depend on precise temperature, pressure, and timing.

Since effective sterilisation relies heavily on accurate temperature levels, regular calibration and validation are essential to confirm that the autoclave chamber reaches optimal conditions. This ensures that proper sterilisation is consistently achieved.

 How do I calibrate my Autoclave? 

Short explanation.

Calibration involves comparing the readings of the device being calibrated with those of a reference device that is known to be accurate and traceable to a national standard.

Longer explanation

These are the key steps in autoclave calibration.

1. Verification of Instruments: Checking the accuracy of the sensors (like temperature and pressure sensors) used in the autoclave. This might involve comparing the readings of the autoclave's instruments against calibrated reference instruments.

2. Temperature Calibration: Ensuring that the autoclave reaches and maintains the correct temperature throughout the sterilisation cycle. This is often done by placing calibrated temperature loggers in various locations inside the chamber to monitor temperature distribution.

3. Pressure Calibration: Verifying that the autoclave reaches the correct pressure during operation. This may involve comparing the autoclave's pressure readings with a known standard.

4. Cycle Time Verification: Confirming that the autoclave operates for the correct amount of time, as required for effective sterilisation.

5. Documentation: Properly documenting all calibration procedures, results, and any adjustments made to the autoclave. This is essential for compliance with industry standards and regulations.

6. Adjustments: If any discrepancies are found during the calibration process, adjustments are made to the autoclave to bring it within the required specifications.

Regular calibration of autoclaves is crucial to ensure they function correctly and provide reliable sterilisation, which is critical in medical, laboratory, and industrial settings where contamination control is vital.

 How often should my Autoclave be validated? 

AS5369:2023 requires autoclaves to be validated annually.

The frequency of autoclave validation depends on several factors, including the type of autoclave, its usage, and industry regulations. However, general guidelines suggest:

1. Annually: Most autoclaves should be validated at least once a year to ensure they continue to meet performance and safety standards.

2. After Major Repairs or Relocation: If the autoclave undergoes significant repairs, modifications, or is moved to a new location, it should be re-validated to confirm it is functioning correctly in its new setup.

3. Change in Load Types: If there is a change in the type or volume of items being sterilised, re-validation may be necessary to ensure the autoclave can effectively sterilise the new load.

4. High-Frequency Use: Autoclaves frequently used or for critical processes may require more frequent validation, such as every six months, to maintain reliability.

5. Regulatory Requirements: Some industries, like pharmaceuticals or healthcare, may have specific regulatory requirements that dictate the validation frequency. Always follow the guidelines relevant to your industry.

Regular validation ensures the autoclave performs reliably and consistently, reducing the risk of incomplete sterilisation.

 Do I receive a report after my autoclave has been serviced or calibrated and validated? 

Yes, after your autoclave has been serviced, calibrated or validated, you will receive a detailed report. Our Biomedical Engineers will record the date, pass/fail status, and all other important details in an autoclave validation log. Additionally, we will inform you of the results.

 After my autoclave has been repaired, is it still necessary to perform calibration and validation? 

Absolutely. The calibration and validation work our engineers perform is distinct from routine servicing. We thoroughly assess the autoclave's heating cycle, including temperature, duration, pressure, and steam penetration, to ensure the autoclave is functioning correctly and achieving the necessary conditions to eliminate bacteria in the chamber effectively.

During an autoclave service, our Biomedical Engineers will examine components such as the filter, seal, sensors, pumps, and chambers to ensure they meet the manufacturer's standards. Routine servicing helps prevent unexpected breakdowns of these parts, reducing the risk of faults and downtime for your autoclave.

 What makes BCS Testing the best choice for your autoclave validation and calibration needs?

Our Services conform to the Australian Standard AS5369:2023. BCS Testing is the best choice for your autoclave service, validation, and calibration needs due to our commitment to quality, expertise, and customer satisfaction. Here's what sets us apart:

1. Expertise and Experience:  

Our team of highly trained Biomedical Technicians has extensive experience in autoclave maintenance, calibration, and validation across a wide range of industries. We stay up-to-date with the latest industry standards and technologies, ensuring your equipment is serviced by knowledgeable professionals.

2. Comprehensive Services:  

We offer a complete suite of services, from routine maintenance to detailed calibration and validation. This ensures that your autoclave not only operates smoothly but also meets all necessary regulatory and safety standards.

3. Precision and Accuracy:  

Our calibration and validation processes are thorough, focusing on critical parameters like temperature, pressure, and cycle time. We use advanced tools and techniques to ensure your autoclave performs optimally, providing reliable sterilisation every time.

4. Compliance and Documentation:  

BCS Testing understands the importance of compliance. We provide detailed documentation for all services, including calibration and validation logs, certificates, and reports. This helps you maintain compliance with industry regulations and provides peace of mind during audits and inspections.

5. Customer-Centric Approach:  

We prioritise your needs, offering flexible scheduling, prompt service, and clear communication throughout the process. Our goal is to minimise downtime and disruption to your operations while ensuring your autoclave functions at its best.

6. Competitive Pricing:  

We offer high-quality services at competitive rates, ensuring you receive the best value without compromising on quality.