Autoclaving Facility

An autoclave is a device used to sterilize equipment and supplies by subjecting them to high pressure saturated steam at 121°C for 15–20 minutes, depending on the size of the load and the contents, to inactivate bacteria, viruses, fungi, and spores but prions may not. Autoclaving is also used to sterilize medical waste prior to disposal in the standard solid waste stream.

In the Research Centre, the Autoclave Room is part of the Department of Infection and Immunity because of location and function. It is the place where researchers wash, clean, and dry glassware, sterilize glassware and media, and decontaminate biological waste.

The use of the Autoclave Room is governed by specific procedures which can be read inside the Room and obtained from the Room Attendant. Procedures to get rid of biological waste are the most important. Autoclavable Orange Bags must be used and brought early morning on the designated days. All materials, including media and biological waste, must be brought in the Autoclave Room before 5PM from Saturday to Tuesday and before 4PM on Wednesday.