07 Apr SALON INFECTION CONTROL SERIES: IDEAL TEMPERATURES FOR SALON AutoclavES

Time, Temperature and Water

As autoclaves are now becoming the next step in salon Infection Control standards/protocols, there are additional considerations and safety measures to address, to ensure effective operation.

Packing, loading, processing, and maintaining an autoclave may seem as simple as loading and unloading a dishwasher, however autoclaves require training, planning and maintenance to avoid operational safety hazards and to achieve expected Infection Control outcomes.

Thanks to its mechanical structure, autoclaves allow the sterilizing process to be completed by using steam under high pressures, essential in killing all microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, and spore forms. This process is the recommended method by the CDC as it is effective, fast, non-toxic, and inexpensive. With table top models readily available, it is also easily conducive for in salon use, as they are sufficient in in meeting theses requirements.

According to the CDC, for sterilization to occur, a sterilizer must reach a temperature of 250 degrees F/ 121 degrees C for a minimum of 30 minutes. With many “sterilizers” on the market today, these are the perimeters an appliance need to reach to guarantee results of sterile implements.

Always follow the manufactures instructions and ALWAYS, ALWAYS use either distilled water or deionized water to fill an autoclave Using distilled or deionized water will prolong the life of your investments, (autoclave and implements), avoid unnecessary, costly repairs, as well as avoiding rusting or staining of implements, contaminates, mineral build-up, and biofilm from biological water borne pathogens in public water sources.

With the beauty industry under close scrutiny and increased demands for stringent Infection Control standards, investing and learning to use an autoclave correctly, will not only protect you, your salon, and your clients’ health and wellness, but putting an emphasis on health first is always a smart step in your business strategy.

Watch for The Next Step: Don’t Get Burnt, Autoclave Safety
by Brenda J Ribble, BSc Pod
Saiph Pro Division of Best Foot Forward Distribution