3-6
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Operating Instructions
Techniques of Sterilization
3.6 Dart (Bowie-Dick)
Test
Conduct a residual air test (e.g., Bowie-Dick test) at the beginning of each day
according to the AAMI standard ST-46. STERIS can provide a product called
DART (Daily Air Removal Test) designed to be as sensitive as the standard
AAMI Bowie-Dick test pack in detecting air leaks. Refer to instructions for
running DART test given in Section 4 of this manual. If a DART is not available,
construct Bowie-Dick test package in accordance with instructions given in
AAMI standard ST-8.
Run the Vacuum Leak test cycle daily or weekly. This test measures the
integrity of the sealed pressure vessel and associated piping to assure air is
not being admitted to the sterilizer during the vacuum drawdowns. Refer to
appropriate cycle description in S
ECTION
6 of this manual.
After running a vacuum leak test, a value or leak rate will be printed on the
printer tape. This value will help define a trend over a period of time if the
integrity of the system begins to deteriorate (i.e., allowing air to enter the
system). By running a vacuum leak test cycle daily or weekly, the operator or
maintenance personnel can always monitor the air tightness of the system and
make repairs or adjustments when necessary.
NOTE: A leak rate of greater than 1 mm Hg (1.3 mbar) per minute indicates a
problem with the sterilizer that must be addressed.
3.7 Vacuum Leak
Test
WARNING–STERILITY AS-
SURANCE HAZARD: Accord-
ing to AAMI standards, a mea-
sured leak rate greater than
1 mm Hg/minute indicates a
problem with the sterilizer.
Refer the situation to a quali-
fied service technician before
using the sterilizer further.
