Is your autoclave safe? Putting frameworks in place for optimal performance and legal compliance

Benchtop autoclaves are an essential piece of medical equipment for every veterinary practice to enable surgical instruments to be reprocessed. There are key requirements for the user to adhere to, and technical maintenance that will ensure that autoclave performance remains optimal. Additionally, there are legal requirements that must be adhered to under the Pressure Safety Systems Regulations (2000). This article explores the frameworks that veterinary practices should have in place to ensure that their autoclaves are reliable, safe and legally compliant.