Calibration & Validation
What is autoclave calibration?
Autoclave calibration is bringing the response of a sensor into a specific range of temperature required for sterilization. This is done by comparing the autoclave sensor's response to a previously calibrated device, which is called as the "standard". There is a national reference standard that our service engineers abide by.
What is autoclave validation?
Autoclave validation is a quality assurance procedure to ensure that the autoclave reaches adequate temperature for an adequate amount of time in order to be able to sterilize biological agents and/or instruments. This process is used to assess the efficiency and performance of autoclave.
Biological indicators are also used to demonstrate that the sterilization process is efficient.
Why do I need to calibrate and validate my autoclave?
It is important to ensure consistent sterilization results each time the machine is run. Autoclaves have temperature and pressure gauges, as well as a timer.
As autoclave efficiency is highly reliant on actual temperatures, regular calibration and validation ensures that the temperature and pressure in the autoclave chamber reaches its optimal level. This will in turn ensure that proper sterilization is occurring.
How are autoclaves calibrated?
Calibration is performed by comparing the reading of the device to be calibrated with another device which is known to be accurate according to national standard. One of the commonly used international reference for standards in the US NIST.
How often should autoclaves be calibrated?
Australian requirements are to calibrate autoclaves at least once annually. Some autoclaves are used heavily and may require bi-anually, or even quarterly calibration and validation services.
Do I keep any documents after my autoclave is calibrated and validated?
After each calibration and validation process, our engineers will document the date, pass/fail and all other relevant information on an autoclave validation log. We will also notify you of the results.
If I have had my autoclave repaired recently does it still need to be calibrated and validated?
Definitely. The work that our engineers do for calibration and validation will be different from regular servicing work. We check the autoclave's heating cycle including temperature, duration, pressure and steam penetration, to ensure that the autoclave is performing and reaching the correct values to eliminate bacteria in the autoclave chamber.
During an autoclave service, our engineers will inspect autoclave parts like the filter, seal, sensors, pumps and chambers, ensuring that these are compliant with the manufacturer's requirements. Regular servicing ensures that these parts do not break down unexpectedly which can cause faults and downtime on your autoclave machine.
Why choose MES for your autoclave calibration and validation?
Our services conform to the Australian standards AS/NZS 3551:2004. We send out experienced technicians with back-up loan units. Upon completion a calibration report will be provided. During the validation process our technicians also look out for possible issues and fix them on the spot.
We also sell and service all dental and medical equipment, we are a one-stop shop for you to save costs and time when having your machines calibrated and routinely serviced.
MES also travels to regional and remote practices to meet you where you are.
Can I get discount on our calibration and validation service?
We are happy to offer bulk calibration and validation services where there are multiple machines. We also offer flexible service and maintenance packages to help you reduce your service and maintenance costs.
