Standard Operating Procedure: Autoclaves

Great care must be exercised when using autoclaves. Further information can be found in the University guide Autoclave Safety (2000).

Benchtop Autoclaves

  1. Pyrex or borosilicate glass containers should be used (other types are prone to break). Caps should be fully loosened before containers are put into autoclaves.
  2. Check that there is sufficient water to complete the cycle.
  3. Always lift the lid of the autoclave so that the steam or any explosion is directed away from you by the lid. Keep your face away from the open autoclave. For added safety, wear a face visor.
  4. Wear heat protective gloves.
  5. Before removing bottles from an autoclave check that the internal bottle pressure is at atmospheric (liquid may appear to be boiling of it is not).
  6. Do not stand bottles removed from the autoclave on a cold surface. A square of expanded polystyrene is useful.
  7. Do not attempt to accelerate the exhausting of the autoclave by opening the test valve.
  8. If in doubt about the operation of the autoclave, ask for advice.
  9. If in doubt about the safety of the autoclave, ask for advice.
  10. On autoclaves with a pressure gauge, the maximum safe working pressure is indicated with a red line.

Floor-standing Autoclaves

  1. Pyrex or borosilicate glass containers should be used (other types are prone to break). Caps should be fully loosened before containers are put into autoclaves.
  2. Check that there is sufficient water to complete the cycle.
  3. Keep your face away from the open autoclave. For added safety, wear a face visor.
  4. Wear heat protective gloves.
  5. Before removing bottles from an autoclave check that the internal bottle pressure is at atmospheric (liquid may appear to be boiling of it is not).
  6. Do not stand bottles removed from the autoclave on a cold surface. A square of expanded polystyrene is useful.
  7. If in doubt about the operation of the autoclave, ask for advice.
  8. If in doubt about the safety of the autoclave, ask for advice.
  9. On autoclaves with a pressure gauge, the maximum safe working pressure is indicated with a red line.