How to Shut Down Autoclaves for Cleaning
An autoclave is a device used to sterilize lab equipment such as beakers and flasks. The device uses extremely high pressure to force steam through the chamber. This method kills off all microorganisms and sterilizes any material inside the autoclave chamber.
An autoclave must be completely finished the cycle and cooled down before the door to the chamber is opened. Shutting down an autoclave for cleaning also requires waiting for the unit to cool down.
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Instructions
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Wait until the sterilization cycle has completed and the unit has cooled down. It is extremely important to wait for both the temperature gauge and the pressure gauge to read 0 before attempting to open the autoclave door.
It can take 15 to 20 minutes for some autoclaves to completely cool down after a cycle. Some machines may take less time and some may take more time. When the gauges reach 0, the door can slowly be opened.
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Open the autoclave door slowly after both gauges have reached zero. Opening slowly allows any remaining pressure and steam to exit the chamber. The unit should have automatically turned off after the cycle ended; if not, ensure that the cycle switch is set to off.
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Allow the unit to drain any water build up that may have accumulated in the bottom of the unit. Most of the water should have drained during the cool down, remaining water may still be extremely hot and thus needs to drain.
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Remove any items inside the autoclave slowly. These items would include the tray and any items placed on the tray for sterilization. Wear approved heat and puncture resistant gloves when handling anything that was inside the autoclave. Never touch the interior of a recently used autoclave with bare hands.
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Turn off the power switch on the unit. Locate the power supply cable and follow it to the electrical outlet that it is plugged into. Unplug the power supply cable from the electrical outlet before proceeding. Wait a few minutes before proceeding.
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Remove any trays or shelving to clean them separately from the rest of the autoclave chamber. Proceed with cleaning the autoclave as instructed by the autoclave manual or seek professional cleaning.
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Tips & Warnings
If possible, do not use the autoclave when a scheduled cleaning is planned.
Never open an autoclave during a cycle or immediately after a cycle. Doing so can cause serious injury. Always inspect the autoclave unit before use and ensure the door is sealed properly before activating a cycle. Always wear protective gloves. Protective eye wear may be recommended in your lab to protect against shards of broken glass, debris or steam. Do not stand directly in front of the autoclave during use, there have been cases of autoclave unit doors blowing off the unit. Only place approved containers for sterilization into an autoclave. Do not use an autoclave unless you have been trained or instructed on how to use it.
