Steam Sterilization/Autoclave
The appropriate procedure for autoclaving medical pathological waste (MPW) depends on several factors, including the type of autoclave, the size and composition of the load, and the moisture content.
- Use autoclave Biohazard bags purchased through the NIH Supply Center.
- Place the autoclave bag in an autoclave pan for transporting and autoclaving.
- Add 50 ml water to the autoclave bag BEFORE closing, secure with autoclave tape, but not airtight.
- Waste must be processed for 60 minutes at a minimum of 121° Centigrade.
- Allow bags to cool, discard bag and contents: use the Disposable Labware & Broken Glass box; Don’t discard autoclave biohazard bags in the general waste dumpster (place in MPW boxes).
- Chemical indicators should be included in every run to ensure adequate decontamination conditions.
Note: Autoclaves must be maintained according to manufacturer specifications, validated monthly to ensure decontamination using a Biological Indicator (BI), and have up-to-date logbook entries.
Disinfectants
Suitable chemical disinfectants include:
- Sodium hypochlorite (bleach at 5.25%; mercury-free), 1:10 dilution (5000 ppm)
Always use the EPA’s list of registered disinfectants appropriate to the infectious material you wish to inactivate.