Revision n.1
User Manual B-One
Edition: 04/2009
Page 38 of 52
7 STEAM STERILIZATION
7.1
RECOMMENDATIONS
Do not insert unsuitable objects into the equipment, for example liquids, bottles, plastic
objects, food, etc.
Follow the list below - as long as the instrument manufacturer has also specified that these
same items can be steam sterilized in the autoclave.
•
Stainless steel instruments
•
Stainless steel surgical instruments
•
Dynamic instruments (handpieces, turbines, contra-angles, etc.)
•
Articles in heat resistant plastic (verify temperatures indicated by each manufacturer)
•
Steam sterilizable gloves
•
Gauze and fabrics
Any other material marked with the "steam autoclavable" symbol.
7.2
STERILIZATION MONITORING – B&D AND HELIX TESTS
The purpose of these tests is to ascertain sterilization efficiency.
B-One carries out B&D (Bowie-Dick) and Helix tests.
The B&D test is performed with a "standard test-pack" (ref. Norm EN 867-5 “Non-
biological systems for use in sterilizers”), to be set inside the empty autoclave according to
test manufacturer instructions.
The B&D test pack contains an indicator sheet which changes colour (generally from
yellow to black) to demonstrate sterilization efficiency.
Read the indicator sheet at the end of the test cycle.
Steam uniformly penetrates the pack and the indicator sheet shows an even colour
change if sterilization is efficient.
If on the other hand vacuum conditions are not efficient and area has not been completely
removed, the indicator sheet will not show an even colour change.
The presence of a clearer area on the sheet, which could be located near the centre of the
indicator sheet, indicates a defect in autoclave function.
The helix test is carried out on a certified test cannula (“helix test system”).
One end of the cannula has an open housing where a suitable indicator paper is to be
positioned, folded according to manufacturer instructions.
We recommend use of cannulas and paper from the same manufacturer.
