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10.9
Loading and Unloading the Device
10.9.1 Safety
Protective equipment and clothes and other safety instructions should
be implemented in accordance with local and national regulations
and/or rules!
For proper sterilization, do not overload the chamber. Only
autoclavable products shall be used; please refer to the manufacturer
instructions for sterilization of unknown materials or instruments.
10.9.2 Loading
Correct loading of the autoclave is essential to successful sterilizing for
several reasons. Efficient air removal from the chamber and the load
will permit effective steam penetration and saturation, and allow proper
drainage of condensate. Additionally, correct loading will prevent
damage to packs and their contents and maximize efficient use of the
sterilizer.
For detailed loading instructions, see sec. 9 (Preparation before
sterilization)
10.9.3 Unloading
On completion of the cycle, take out the load immediately from the
sterilizer. Do not remove the load from the basket until its temperature
reduces to the room temperature. Let the load cool down in an area
without air movement (air conditioning, etc.) and with minimum people
passing by to avoid possibility of touching the hot load. Do not touch
the hot load since hot load absorbs moister and, therefore, may absorb
bacteria from your hand. Do not transfer hot load to metal shelves for
cooling. Perform a visual inspection to ascertain that sterilizing
indicators have made the required colour change, and that the load is
dry.
The load shall be rejected if:
a.
The package has been compressed.
b.
The package is torn.
c.
The load is suspected to be wet.
d.
The load fell on the floor.
e.
Condensed drops can be detected on the load.
To avoid injuries use heat resistant gloves while unloading the
autoclave.
