28
Bowie Dick testing
The purpose of the Bowie Dick test is to reveal deficiencies in the
ability of the sterilizer to expel air and reveal leaks or an excessive
content of non-condensable gases in the steam. In testing in accordance
with EN 285, (or applicable national standard) an indicator paper is
placed in the centre of a test pack. The pack, which must be 220 - 300
mm square and approx. 250 mm high, must consist of folded cloths of
100% cotton. The pre-treatment of the test programme must be identical
to the pre-treatment for the processes used for routine sterilization,
while the sterilization time may be adapted to the performance of the
sterilizer but must not exceed 3.5 minutes.
When the indicator paper has been sufficiently exposed to steam at a
particular temperature, further exposure tends to hide the indication of
any deficiencies. GETINGE’s Bowie Dick programme is therefore
tested with the shortest possible sterilization time so that any
deficiencies are not concealed by overexposure.
In day-to-day work, the above, standardised test packs for the sake of
convenience are sometimes replaced by various types of disposable
packs which are manufactured by a large number of manufacturers. As
these packs are generally even more sensitive to overexposure than the
standardised test pack, it is extremely important to choose the correct
make. Test packs in accordance with BS 7720:1995 must be used for
GETINGE’s Bowie Dick programme.
• Remove any shelves, guides and bottom plates and clean the inside
of the sterilizer chamber.
Use a general-purpose chlorine-free cleaner. Scouring powder may
be used occasionally on stubborn stains. Never use steel wool.
Sterilizers that are often used to sterilize products containing salt
require especially thorough cleaning, since residual deposits may
even attack stainless steel. An acidic cleaning agent followed by
careful rinsing is most suitable for the purpose.
• After cleaning, insert the key in the keyswitch and
restore the initial status.
Close the door with the door pushbutton.
• On double-ended sterilizers, the unloading door can be opened for
cleaning by repeating steps 1 - 5. Note that there may be restrictions
on door opening on SPF sterilizers and sterilizers with controlled
work flow.
• When cleaning is complete, both doors must be closed and the key
must be left in the keyswitch.
To Next Page
Loading...
