Autoclaves On-demand Module
A self-paced learning opportunity
On-demand Learning Team:
Eric Lewis, PhD, RBP(ABSA), CBSP(ABSA), Merck & Co., Inc, West Point, PA
Endah Sulistijo, PhD, RBP(ABSA), CBSP(ABSA), Temple University, Philadelphia, PA
Ericka Pearce, MS, CBSP(ABSA), George Mason University, Manassas, VA
Lesley Decker, MS, RBP(ABSA), University of Washington, Seattle, WA
Karon Floyd, MSc, RBP(ABSA), Walter Reed Army Institute of Research, Silver Spring, MD
Jaishree Garhyan, MSc, PhD, RBP(ABSA), Stanford University—School of Medicine, Stanford, CA
Cathie Mancini, BS, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ
Julie Conyer, BA, RBP(ABSA), Cornell University, Ithaca, NY
Overview
Master the fundamentals of autoclave operation, safety, and sterilization best practices. This comprehensive training provides laboratory, clinical, and safety professionals with the knowledge needed to select, operate, maintain, and validate autoclaves while minimizing risks to personnel and facilities. Participants will gain practical insight into autoclave functionality, cycle parameters, safety precautions, preventive maintenance, and emergency response procedures.
Objectives
- Differentiate between decontamination, disinfection, and sterilization and explain the role of autoclaves in biological safety programs
- Describe how autoclaves use pressurized steam to inactivate microorganisms and achieve effective sterilization
- Identify common autoclave types, operating modes, and selection criteria based on facility, load, and operational needs
- Explain key cycle parameters and factors that influence sterilization effectiveness, including load composition and steam penetration
- Apply autoclave validation methods using mechanical, chemical, biological, and physical indicators
- Implement safe work practices, appropriate PPE requirements, and preventive maintenance procedures
- Recognize autoclave hazards and respond appropriately to incidents, equipment failures, and utility disruptions
Audience Level:
All levels
Suggested Background:
None
Who Should Attend:
Laboratory personnel, biosafety professionals, clinical staff, research personnel, facilities teams, and anyone responsible for autoclave operation or oversight.
P.A.C.E.® CONTACT HOURS/CREDENTIALING MAINTENANCE POINTS
This course has been approved for 0.125 CM points toward RBP/CBSP recertification. *ABSA International is approved as a provider of continuing education programs in clinical laboratory sciences by the ASCLS P.A.C.E.® Program. This course is approved for 1.0 P.A.C.E.® contact hours. Course access links are unique and for individual use only. Sharing is prohibited.
QUESTIONS
Contact: Kari DeServi, MEd, Director of Education, ABSA Office, 866.425.1385 (toll free)
Email: education@absa.org
COURSE FEES
*ABSA Member: $50
Non-Members: $95
* To receive the ABSA member rate, participants must be current ABSA members during the training year. Fees include course handouts, access to the ABSA International training site, and access to a forum feature for asking questions.
Confirmed, paid participants will be sent detailed information regarding the course within 10 business days of purchase. Participants will have 100 days to access and complete the course. There will be a $25 cancellation fee. If the participant has been enrolled in the module and logging in has occurred, no refund will be granted.
Course Logistics:
Course is a one hour 15-minute session. To receive credit and a certificate, attendees must view the session and complete or access all course modules. Access to the module will expire 100 days (~3 months) after enrollment into the course on the ABSA International On-demand Training Site. An extension of three (3) additional months can be purchased for $30 prior to the expiration date of the module. The regular course fee will be applicable after the expiration date. Only two extensions will be allowed. After a total of 9 months, the regular course fee will apply. Once the module certificate has been issued, the participant will continue to have access to the module until the expiration date. Participants are encouraged to print out materials prior to completing the module to have materials for review post expiration date. Access to the module and survey is based on individual email addresses. The course materials are for registered participants only.
