Zentralsterilisation - Ausgabe 2/03

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EDITORIAL

Small Pox, Vaccinations, Processing

NEWS UPDATE

What's New in Standardisation: Development, Validation and Routine Control of a Sterilization Process
Forum 2003 - Just what is it that we can certify?
VSZ Workshop in Ghent 6 December 2002 Devices

MAIN ARTICLES

M. Korn:
Measurement and Assessment of Hazardous Substance Load at Workplaces in Gas Sterilisation. Part B: Discontinuous measuring methods based on TRGS 402 with in situ sampling followed by laboratory analysis; potential use of continuous measuring methods
(Zentr Steril 2003; 11 (2): 111-114)

Abstract
Within the scope of the workplace analysis, the concentration of hazardous substances in the air at the workplace must be ascertained on the basis of measurements; this is generally done by resorting to control measurements. To obtain a single sample, the in situ sampling of these measurements must be carried out for at least two hours in proximity to the staff member's nose, followed by laboratory analysis. In general, indicator tubes are not suitable for conducting measurements in accordance with TRGS 402. As an alternative to control measurements, procedure- and substance-oriented (PSO) criteria can also be used or a facility for continuous monitoring can be installed. If measurement results attest to assured, long-term compliance with the workplace limit value specified for a hazardous substance governed by an MAC value, no further control measurements are required. If the average concentration measured for at least three different shifts is I = 1/2 limit value (LV), compliance with the limit value must be monitored by means of further control measurements. The interval for such control measurements will depend on the results of the previous measurement and must be specified by the measuring institute. In the case of values governed by a TRK value, repeat measurements must be carried out - albeit in the case of fully automated sterilisation with ethylene oxide (EO) there are PSO criteria - which generally mean that workplace measurements for EO can be dispensed with. The same applies in the case of fully automated sterilisation with formaldehyde (FA), as a substance governed by an MAC value.

DISCUSSION

U. Rosenberg:
Thermal Disinfection - The A0 Concept and the Biological Background
(Zentr Steril 2003; 11 (2): 118-120)

Abstract
This paper focuses on parametric control of thermal disinfection and on its relationship to the biology underlying the killing/inactivation of microorganisms through moist heat. The disinfection parameters (A0 values) as recommended in the standard, or their interpretation, are cortically reviewed. It would probably be advisable to replace the overkill approach, which is especially prevalent in German-speaking countries, by improved cleaning.

STERILIZATION BASICS

P. Hooper:
Monitoring the Washer-Disinfector

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