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VII. DISINFECTION/STERILIZATION
Is the autoclave spore-tested on a regular basis?   If NO, then   Autoclaves must be tested for quality control. Spore testing is the most reliable way to check the effectiveness of your autoclave. Contact your autoclave service representative or EHRS for information about available products.
Do you use methods of sterilization other than autoclaving (ethylene oxide, formaldehyde, hydrogen peroxide, etc.)?   If YES, then   Additional training may be required. Contact EHRS for recommendations.
Do you disinfect equipment and surfaces on a regular basis?   If NO, then   Disinfect all areas exposed to infectious materials at the beginning of the workday, after use, immediately following spills, and at the end of the day. Click here for a list of disinfectants and their properties.
 INFECTIOUS WASTE DISPOSAL
Is infectious waste properly identified, sorted, and disposed of according to University guidelines?   If NO, then   All infectious waste must be disposed of through the University's Infectious Waste Stream. Consult the EHRS Website for Infectious Waste Disposal Guidelines.
Is infectious waste decontaminated prior to disposal?   If NO, then   All infectious waste must be decontaminated, preferably by autoclaving, before disposal through the University's Infectious Waste Stream.
Are infectious waste liquids (volumes over 20cc) separated and properly disposed of?   If NO, then   Infectious waste liquids must be collected in an unbreakable, rigid, leak-proof container and properly inactivated with a suitable disinfectant or autoclaved prior to sanitary sewer disposal. Drains should be flushed with copious amounts of cold water. Alternatively, liquids can be autoclaved and disposed of through the University's Infectious Waste Stream in a sealed, unbreakable, leak-proof container that is properly labeled.
Are all materials labeled with the universal biohazard symbol discarded as infectious waste?   If NO, then   All materials labeled with the universal biohazard symbol must be disposed of as infectious waste. If labeled items are not contaminated, labels must be defaced/destroyed prior to disposal in the regular trash.
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go to Section VIII, Sharps