Date: Thu, 8 Jul 2010 14:41:23 -0400
Reply-To: DCHAS-L Discussion List <DCHAS-L**At_Symbol_Here**LIST.UVM.EDU>
Sender: DCHAS-L Discussion List <DCHAS-L**At_Symbol_Here**LIST.UVM.EDU>
From: McGrath Edward J <Edward.McGrath**At_Symbol_Here**REDCLAY.K12.DE.US>
Subject: Re: Biological Indicators
In-Reply-To: <4AFDB801E7D08746B7AE29D66699CB6E01A025D31A**At_Symbol_Here**MBX07.exg5.exghost.com>

The gold standard for this protocol is Bacillus stearothermophilus 
endospores.  This is a bacterium that only grows at temperatures above 
56 degrees C (can't seem to do symbols!)

Autoclaving at 121 degrees C for 15 minutes is sufficient to kill the 
spores.  After autoclaving, you inoculate appropriate medium and 
incubate in a hot water bath, with a control culture of un-autoclaved 
spores (which should, of course, grow). 

I'm afraid I have no idea of pricing.  Another option is autoclave tape, 
which reveals writing after autoclaving.  You should use this with every 
autoclave run (it usually says "autoclaved" or "sterile.")  This is good 
for showing which medium has been sterilized and which hasn't (assuming 
the medium is not compromised.)  The disadvantage to the tape is that 
with age, the writing can appear without autoclaving.

Edward J. McGrath
Science Supervisor
Red Clay Consolidated School District
 
office:  (302) 552-3768
-----Original Message-----
From: DCHAS-L Discussion List [mailto:DCHAS-L**At_Symbol_Here**list.uvm.edu] On Behalf Of 
Beth Welmaker
Sent: Thursday, July 08, 2010 2:00 PM
To: DCHAS-L**At_Symbol_Here**LIST.UVM.EDU
Subject: [DCHAS-L] Biological Indicators

I am looking for a recommendation for simple Biological Indicators to 
verify our autoclave sterilization effectiveness.
There are several vial styles to choose from.  I don't want to waste 
money on a poor product. 

Thank you in advance!

Beth Welmaker, CCHO
Safety Officer

11350 SW Village Parkway - Third Floor
Port Saint Lucie, FL=A0 34987
772-345-4826

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