Steam Sterilization Isn’t Only For Hospitals

Autoclave Sterilization refers to the process of combining high heat and pressure to kill microorganisms. This form of sanitation dates back to the late 17th century and is derived from an early version of the pressure cooker. The first autoclave was introduced in 1879, and the device is now the gold standard in sterilization equipment for hospitals and laboratories.

The process of steam sterilization is preferred because it is reliable and time-effective. Autoclaves use pressurized steam to reach sterilizing temperatures in a very short amount of time. Once these temperatures are reached, the steam also ensures that the heat is maintained long enough to destroy any pathogens. This two-tiered approach makes autoclaves more effective than any other method of sanitation. 

Autoclave devices are often associated with the medical field. While they’re certainly necessary for healthcare providers, autoclaves have other uses too. Steam sterilization has a place in any environment where microorganisms gather. Autoclaves are incredibly useful in each of the industries below.

Cosmetology

Nail and Beauty salons must comply with strict hygienical standards. Tools like nail filers, clippers, and scissors must be sterilized after each use. It’s common to see practitioners soak their instruments in alcohol or peroxide, and many technicians also employ UV rays as a means of sanitation. While these practices have their place, steam sterilization is more dependable than cleansing agents or UV light. 

High temperatures are a safeguard against microbes that alcohol and peroxide lack. Similarly, UV rays are limited because they can only sanitize surfaces they touch. Autoclaves produce steam that maintains a consistent antimicrobial temperature. Steam also has the benefit of dispersing around the surface area of an object. Thus, overcoming the coverage vulnerability presented by UV rays. Autoclaves have considerable advantages in salons and beauty parlors, and there are several options tailored specifically for these environments. 

Tattooing 

Tattooing is a practice that requires extreme care. The nature of the business means that contamination is a real possibility if proper hygiene precautions are not taken. Since steam sterilization provides the most thorough form of sanitation available, autoclaves are fixtures in tattoo shops across the world. While the cosmetology industry uses various sterilization methods, tattoo parlors generally default to autoclaves  to ensure that their instruments are safe. Additionally, autoclaves come in configurations that are compact and affordable. This provides artists with a cost-effective means to sterilize equipment quickly. 

Funeral Homes

Similar to hospitals, funeral homes are responsible for disposing of large amounts of biohazardous waste. The federal government has strict regulations on the disposal of biohazardous waste and similar infectious materials. These regulations require funeral homes to sterilize the waste that they produce before it is transported for disposal.

Autoclaves are perfect for this job, which is why they are a must for funeral homes and mortuaries. Using autoclaves in this scenario renders the waste non-infectious so that it can be safely disposed of. While funeral homes may not be concerned with pathogens spreading between clients, their mandate to comply with federal waste regulations makes autoclave sterilization a necessity. 

Autoclaves are an invaluable asset in any situation where microbial agents exist. They are a trusted piece of machinery and they’re a great investment in safety and cleanliness. When there are industry or government regulations to follow, autoclaves also ensure that businesses comply.

The applications of steam sterilization are wide-ranging and autoclave manufactures are always looking for new ways to meet this demand. Autoclaves come in a variety of sizes and price ranges. Many even have features specifically designed for cosmetology, tattooing, and other industries. There are plenty of options available to meet the needs of prospective buyers.

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