Sterilizer Maintenance Record

Manufacturers provide instructions for the operation and care of their products. In general, sterilization equipment must undergo daily and periodic maintenance to ensure accurate, reliable operation (Box C). A maintenance record, the fifth component of quality assurance, must be kept on each sterilizer. It should include the model and serial number, date of servicing, reason for the service (periodic, preventive, or sterilization failure), what was done, and the name or initial of the person performing the service.

Box C. Essential requirements for documenting sterilizer maintenance.

Daily inspection and cleaning as specified in the manufacturer's instruction manual
- e.g., cleaning of gaskets, chart pens, chamber drain screens and internal/external surfaces.
Periodic preventive maintenance as specified in the manufacturer's instruction manual
- e.g., periodic lubrication of parts and replacement of expendable parts such as steam traps.
Periodic calibration as specified in the manufacturer's instruction manual
- e.g., calibration of pressure and temperature gauges, timers, recording and control devices
All documentation of maintenance shall be maintained for a period of at least three years
- Individual State Dental Board requirements may vary
All documentation of maintenance shall be immediately made available upon request by appropriate authorities
- e.g., OSHA, State Dental Board

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