Frequently Asked Questions

  • A Self Contained Biological Indicator (SCBI) is typically an ampule of growth media and a separate spore deposit (stearothermophilus) in a larger vial with a cap that allows high temperature pressurized saturated steam to penetrate and sterilize the spore deposit during the sterilization cycle. For more information, see the attached PDF here.

  • Give us a phone call to let us know you are coming, and we will make a bench space available. 24 hours notice is helpful. Your equipment can be serviced while you wait. The shop features a drive-in door for inclement weather.

  • The Ontario Public Health IPAC Standard, for reprocessing in clinical practice is attached here. We have also included a set of supporting document samples for record keeping found here. Additionally, we have included a sample of required company policy statements here.
    A sample photo of a compliant reprocessing area can be found here.

  • For Ontario Public Health, the short answer is no. They refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for use (MIFU) for that frequency. Your specific college however (i.e Chiropody), insists on annual service.

  • How often you should clean your autoclave depends on your frequency of use. Three-to-four times a day requires you follow the manufacturer’s instructions for use. Twice a week, you may want to inspect the inside of the chamber for contamination before cleaning, as it may not need it. Frequently changing the distilled water is the most effective method to purge contamination from the system.

  • Yes. In clinical practice, to use an autoclave you need a minimum of Ontario Public Health’s “Reprocessing in Community Health Care settings” Online Modules which can be found here. For minor surgery centres performing out-of-hospital procedures, MDRT training is mandatory.

  • The unwrapped cycle is not recommended for sterilization unless in an emergency situation. In the case of speculums, check with the Ontario Gynecological Association for guidance.

  • According to the Ontario Public Health Compliance guidelines (which can be found here), the picture attached here demonstrates an ideal placement. With cleaning and decontamination to the left, packaging in the middle, reprocessing and then instrument storage. All maintaining a one way workflow. This can be left-to-right, or right-to-left, and each function is not limited to that specific room. These processes can be split up into multiple areas, as long as they maintain a one way workflow.

  • For autoclaves requiring annual PM only, typically one hour, On-site or in shop. For the equipment listed in our service offering, it varies based on the complexity and maintenance requirements of the equipment. We discuss all aspects of any repair with the client for clarity in this regard.