GUIDELINES FOR HANDLING TOOLS

CLEANING, STERILIZATION, MAINTENANCE

The tools have been made of steel of properties complying with various tool-related requirements (e.g. chiseling, cutting, clamping). Although the manufacturing process consisted of treatments aiming at the improvement of corrosion resistance, durability of the tools depends upon proper operational use and maintenance.

CAUTION!
Brand-new tools should be washed in warm water with medicine substances and thoroughly dried prior to first sterilization process in order to remove the preservative (paraffin). The removal of the preservative through washing and its careful drying will allow to avoid any discolorations.

Cleaning, rinsing and washing

The tool shall be put into a disinfectant solution immediately after use and washed manually in warm water by means of a small plastic brush or by machine with the application of ultrasounds. Do not use wire brushes and washers. Washing should remove any blood stains, tissues, residues and liquids. Delayed cleaning may result in sticking particles or caking discharges that may become resistant to cleaning and, in the future, hinder or even make sterilization performance impossible. Since numerous chemical compounds and substances strongly corrode steel, the tools should be rinsed and dried directly after use, so that they are not exposed to any potentially harmful substances. It is recommended to use washing and disinfecting preparations acceptable in medicine and containing corrosion-inhibiting agents. In order to wash and dry tools consisting of several components, they should be disassembled beforehand. Having washed and rinsed the tools, dry them very carefully. Packeting of wet tools may lead to corrosion and discolorations. Oil the tools' hinges with paraffin oil after any washing and rinsing but prior to sterilization. On the basis of the Polish Pharmacopoeia, it is recommended to sterilize the tools with water vapor in autoclaves at a temperature of 121°C, 1 atm overpressure and for not less than 15 min. or at a temperature of 134°C, 2 atm overpressure and for not less than 10 min. (the parameters should be taken as minimum), as well as in compliance with sterilization procedures and instructions. The tools should always be sterilized open.

Sterilization

Based on the Polish Pharmacopoeia, it is recommended to sterilize with steam in autoclaves with a temperature of 121^oC, at an overpressure of 1 atm. in no less than 15 minutes or at 134^oC, at an overpressure of 2 atm. in no less than 10 minutes (these parameters should be taken as minimum), in accordance with sterilization procedures and instructions. Strictly adhere to the use of all cleaning, disinfection and sterilization equipment, observe the temperature and operating time.

Always sterilize instruments in the open position!

Note that sterilization is not a substitute for cleaning.


Storage

After thorough washing and rinsing, the tools should be stored at a temperature range from 5 to 30°C and relative humidity not exceeding 70%. The tools have to be controlled before any use - they should be efficient, not contain any toxins (disinfection and sterilization residues) and their material structure should not be damaged (cracks, flexures, splinters, peels).


Warnings

Non-compliance with the aforementioned rules will significantly reduce the tool's durability and shorten its life-time. NON-BARREN PRODUCT - STERILIZE DIRECTLY BEFORE USE

Additional information:

1. Intended use. The tools are designed for a given purpose and should be used in accordance with its intended use. Even the strongest tool may be damaged when used improperly. The use of tools for purposes or in a manner differing from their names or intended use usually results in damages or defects that may lead to serious injuries or even a person's death.

2. Ultrasonic cleaning Ultrasonic cleaning is recommended as the most effective and efficient method. In order to enhance washing efficiency, the tools shall be initially cleaned of any residues prior to putting them into an ultrasonic washer. Moreover, the following rules shall be observed: do not wash electroplated stainless steel and carbon steel tools in the same cycle; have the tools disassembled before putting them into the washer, so that pawls and locks be accessible; avoid stapling the tools during shipment; dry the tools immediately after rinsing and let them be dried completely in the fresh air; lubricate all movable parts.

3. Checking The tool should be checked and tested before any use. Visible damages, cracks, deformed components or blunt blades mean that the tool have to be repaired and must not be used. In order to search for traces of discolorations, cracks or any other imperfections the tool's surfaces should be closely examined. The most common reasons for discolorations and rust are: improper cleaning, simultaneous sterilization of electroplated stainless steel and carbon steel tools, improper preparation and use of cleaning agents, disinfectants or preservatives, non-compliance with operational procedures concerning cleaning and sterilization.

Additional information: Sandblasting machine damages glass surfaces of mirrors, leaves permanent scratches and tarnishes glass.