Sterilisation indicators – why use them?

The indicator on the pouch shows that the pack has been through the autoclave. A sterilisation strip placed inside the pack shows more: whether the process conditions were met in the hardest-to-reach spot. It is a simple test you do with every load, with no extra equipment.

Class 4 or class 5?

Class 4 strips are multi-parameter indicators – they react to at least two critical parameters of steam sterilisation. They are a good everyday check for every load. Class 5 strips are integrating indicators – they react to all critical parameters of steam sterilisation (temperature, time and the presence of steam), so they give a more precise check of every load than class 4.

• ♥ Class 4 strips – 121°C for 15 min or 134°C for 3 min.
• ♥ Class 5 strips – 121°C for 20 min or 135°C for 7 min.

How to use sterilisation tests

• ♥ Label the strip with a fine permanent marker (date, time, cycle number).
• ♥ Put it in a sterilisation pouch together with the tools, in the spot hardest for steam to reach.
• ♥ After a correctly completed process, the blue indicator turns black.

The pack contains 200 strips of 20×140 mm with a perforation in the middle – once separated, you have 400 strips of 20×70 mm. A chemical strip does not replace the periodic biological test of your autoclave, which should be carried out in line with local health and safety requirements.