Autoclaves Used in Australia

An autoclave is a device that uses steam decontaminate or sterilize instruments in a professional environment. This often pertains to medical sites but not always. Australian health care practices can acquire these units from various suppliers.

Identification

• There are a number of autoclave manufacturers in Australia. Some of the commonly marketed names include Cominox, Labec, Malmet, Melag, Mocom, Prestige, Siltex and Tauttnauer. In addition to autoclaves, medical device distributors in Australia also sell other sterilizing equipment such as pan-flushers and bench-mounted models to meet site-specific needs.

Function

• Australia does not regulate certain types of autoclaves, but it does regulate their use. Any biohazard product has to be in the autoclave for at least 90 minutes at a temperature of 120 degrees Celsius. The machine has to be maintained monthly to ensure proper functioning, temperature and steam creation. There are ensuing guidelines for the containers and methodology of placing hazardous materials in the device.

Considerations

• In seeking an autoclave in Australia, check to see if the make and model has been approved by local and federal oversight agencies. This especially includes accreditation by the Occupational Safety and Health officials. When examining these criteria, also confirm this accreditation occurs in all Australian states as there may be variation.