Step 2 Open or unlock all jointed instruments and other items, such as cuticle nippers and nail clippers, and disassemble those with sliding or multiple parts. This allows steam to reach all surfaces of the item. Avoid arranging the instruments and other items together tightly because this prevents steam from reaching all surfaces. Step 3 If instruments and other items are to be wrapped before steam sterilization, use two layers of paper, newsprint, cotton, or muslin fabric (do not use canvas). Instruments and other items should not be placed in a closed container. Step 4 Arrange your instruments according to operator so they do not get mixed up. If you have multiple sets of instruments and operators in your salon, you may want to invest in an autoclave that has trays. This way each tray can be assigned to an operator, and instruments will be easily identified. You could also invest in autoclave bags so that each set of instruments belonging to an individual operator can have its own bag. This will reduce arguments over whose instruments belong to whom. Step 5 Because there are many types of autoclaves in use around the world, it is difficult to provide guidance on the specific instructions on operation. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions whenever possible. In general, sterilize items for 20 minutes at 121 degrees C (270 degrees F) and 106 kPa (15 lb/in2) pressure. (Do not begin timing until the autoclave reaches the desired temperature and pressure.) Note: The units of pressure marked on an autoclave’s pressure gauge may vary from one autoclave to another. The following amounts of pressure (which are approximately equivalent) are the desired pressures for autoclaving: 15 lb/in 2 (15 pounds per square inch). 106 kPa (106 kilopascals). 1 atm (1 atmosphere). 1 kgf/cm 2 (1 kilogram of force per square centimeter). 776 torr. 776 mm Hg (776 millimeters of mercury). Step 6 If the autoclave is automatic, the heat will shut off and the pressure will begin to fall once the sterilization cycle is complete. If the autoclave is not automatic, manually turn off the heat or remove the autoclave from the heat source after 20 minutes if items are unwrapped. Wait until the pressure gauge reads “zero” to open the autoclave. Open the lid or door to allow the remaining steam to escape. Leave instruments or items in the autoclave until they dry.
Step 7 Remove the instruments, trays, or unwrapped items from the autoclave using sterile pickups. To prevent condensation after removing the items from the autoclave, place them on a surface padded with sterile paper or fabric until they are cool. Wait until the instruments, trays, or items reach room temperature (which may take up to several hours) before storing. If using autoclave bags, check the indicator color on the bag to be sure the items in the bag have been sterilized long enough. Store the sealed dry autoclave bag in a clean, dry, protected area. Mark the bag with the date of autoclaving for future reference. Step 8 If you are not using autoclave bags, store items in a clean, closed container. While the autoclave is extremely efficient in sterilizing instruments, the process requires much more time than chemical disinfection. Therefore, it is highly recommended that you have several sets of instruments. Never shorten the length of time instruments are in the autoclave or open the autoclave before it has completed sterilizing. Opening an autoclave in the middle of a cleaning can result in severe burns. Cleaning your autoclave Every autoclave, even the one at your salon, needs cleaning . Experts believe about 25 to 35 percent of repairs could be avoided if autoclaves were cleaned on a regular basis. These cleaning tips are for a chamber autoclave, but no matter what type of autoclave you purchase, follow the manufacturer’s instructions on cleaning. 1. Unplug your autoclave. 2. Move your autoclave to a sink. 3. Remove trays or racks. Sometimes trays can be somewhat difficult to remove, so call your service representative or manufacturer if you need help. TIP : It may help to have a slightly warm chamber for the cleaning process. 4. Pick up the unit and empty the sterilizer chamber. 5. Replace the unit back on the countertop and pour some cleaner into the chamber. 6. Let the cleaning solution soak in for a few minutes. 7. Scrub with a scouring pad. 8. Pour out the solution. 9. Rinse with water. 10. Now, pour a small amount of solution in the reservoir with water, run two to three cycles, and cancel drying cycles. 11. After completion, drain the reservoir and refill with distilled water and run another cycle. 12. Drain one more time and refill. 13. Wipe the door gasket weekly with a wet damp towel and clean the cabinet gasket as well. Your autoclave is now ready for use. Repeat this cleaning about every 10 days or so. keyboard, phone, and desk areas of salons are major germ areas that must be sanitized. To combat the problem, salons should assign cleaning duties to staff. First, you should remove the screws on the underside of the keyboard and separate the two parts. Brush the debris away and then wipe with a sanitizing cloth. Once you put it back together, spray the entire keyboard
Common areas and threats Cleaning the salon computers and reception areas Almost all modern salons now work with computers and computer appointment books. These computer appointment books are generally at the reception desk and are also found in break areas for salon workers to view their schedules. Few people think about the germ havens these areas have become. Yes, experts say the computer
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