Although catastrophic accidents with autoclaves are for the most part uncommon, could you answer, YES if asked, "Is your autoclave operator fully trained to operate your autoclave"? Just as important, can you show that your autoclave has been inspected and maintained annually by an autoclave manufacturer that is an accredited A.S.M.E. / N.B.I.C. Repair and Manufacturing Company? Moreover, does this Manufacturer have in house Engineers?

When was the last time your autoclave and all of its components been serviced or inspected?

According to the National Board web site, "Due to wear and tear and to a degree of over-confidence often associated with long term trouble-free operation, most of the autoclave doors should be thoroughly inspected NOW! Subsequent inspections by a representative of the door manufacturer or other qualified person should take place every three years."

Is your autoclave operator fully trained to operate your autoclave?

The human element MUST NOT be overlooked in the prevention of accidents. All too often after a long association with an operation, even key operating personnel have a tendency to become careless or lax. Personnel without complete knowledge of the hazards involved in the operation are even more likely to become careless and fail to follow safe operating procedures. Thorough training of operating personnel is most important.

Special attention must be given to the following:

• A complete explanation of the entire process and hazards involved.
  
• A thorough understanding of routine duties and emergency procedures.
  
• Thorough instruction and explanation of the functions and operation of control devices.
  
• An explanation of how safety devices function.
  
• Proper procedures for depressurizing the autoclave before opening the door.
  
• Proper procedures for operating the quick-opening door.
  
• The dangers involved by forcing operating mechanisms.
  
• Instructions to report at once any malfunctioning of equipment or control devices.
  
• Instructions should include where to look for wear and evidence of possible failure of equipment.
  

The following link is to the National Board web site where you can read and see for yourself the tragedy and devastation that occurs when operators are not fully trained and/or equipment fails. Keep in mind that these N.B.I.C. Classics pictures and reports are actual incidents of what could go wrong when both training and maintenance of your autoclave are not held with the highest of importance.

Taricco Corporation is "R" stamp certified and is experienced is all aspects of repair and alteration, maintenance, relocating, retrofitting of all types of autoclaves. In addition to being N.B.I.C. "R" stamp certified, we are A.S.M.E. "U", "U2", "S", and "PP" Code stamp certified.

Protect your employees and your investments by contacting us if you have any questions regarding the maintenance or safety of your autoclave and its components.