Decontamination in primary care dental practices - Gov.uk

15 Additional information on test procedures (in addition to those provided in the Standards)15 Additional information on test procedures(in addition to those provided in theStandards)15.1 Most test procedures are defined in the referencedStandards shown in the testing protocols inChapters 12–14. Unless these tests are to beperformed by suitably-qualified and certificatedpractice staff (see Choice Framework for localPolicy and Procedures 01-01 Part A for furtherguidance on training and certification), it will notbe necessary for the practice to possess copies ofthese Standards. It will, however, be necessary thatany contracted test performance include referenceto the requirements of these Standards.15.2 The following tests are additional to those shownin the referred Standards. These additional testprocedures are compliant with EN Standards andshould be applied where necessary and if relevant tothe type of decontamination equipment beingused.Automatic control test15.3 This test (see list of tests in Chapters 12–14) isdesigned to show that the operating cycle functionscorrectly as shown by the values of the cyclevariables indicated and/or recorded by theinstruments fitted to the decontaminationequipment.Method15.4 Place the test load (as defined in BS EN 13060)appropriate to the cycle to be tested and the loadto be processed in the chamber. Select and start thecycle to be tested. If a process-data recording is notmade by the machine, the elapsed time, chambertemperatures and pressures – at all significant stagesof the cycle – should be observed and noted.15.5 At the approximate mid-point of the hold time(disinfection, cleaning, sterilizing), note the elapsedtime and indicated critical parameters. The test willbe considered satisfactory if the followingrequirements are met:• a visual display of “cycle complete” occurs;• during the whole of the cycle the values ofthe cycle parameters as indicated or shown onthe process-data record are within the limitsestablished as giving satisfactory results either bythe manufacturer or the validation tests;• during the hold period, the disinfection/cleaning/sterilizing temperatures are within anappropriate temperature band;• the time for which the temperatures above aremaintained is not less than that previouslyestablished either by the manufacturer orvalidation tests as necessary;• the door cannot be opened until the cycleis complete (it is not advisable to attempt toopen the door in case the safety devices aremalfunctioning – this test should only beperformed by someone fully trained to do so);• the person conducting the test does not observeany mechanical or other anomaly.Ultrasonic activity test15.6 The ultrasonic activity can be investigated by theerosion pattern created on aluminium foil exposedin the tank for a short period. This activity may notbe uniform throughout the tank. Validation testswill determine the pattern variation at definedpositions and the time required to produce thispattern.15.7 The exposure time will depend upon the type offoil used. (Standard test foil is now available tomaximise repeatability.)15.8 The following equipment will be required:• aluminium foil provided for ultrasonic cleanertesting;Method• adhesive tape (for example autoclave indicatortape or masking tape);• a watch or clock with a second hand;• a rule or tape measure.15.9 The following method should be used:• Cut strips of aluminium foil in lengths 120 mmlonger than the bath is deep. Roll up one end ofthe foil so that the foil is now as long as the bathis deep.• Ensure that:– the water in the tank is at the required level;61