Steam sterilizers for laboratory sterilization goods in accordance with DIN 58951

Steam sterilizers for laboratory sterilization goods in accordance with DIN 58951

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The standard governs the use of steam sterilizers for laboratory applications in research and medicine.

 

General information
The DIN 58951:2024-07 standard sets out requirements for steam sterilizers used in medical and biological laboratories. This includes, in particular, the sterilisation of liquids, porous materials and equipment, as well as the thermal disinfection of waste.

 

Not applicable for:

  • Steam sterilizers for medical or pharmaceutical goods (DIN EN 285, E DIN EN 13060, DIN 58950)
  • Steam disinfection devices used in medical settings (DIN 58949)
  • Waste subject to specific infection prevention requirements (DIN 58949)

 

Contents of the Standard

  • Structural, equipment, and operating material requirements
  • Device groups, sterilization methods, and equipment
  • Combinations of process steps: heating, evacuation, cooling, drying
  • Dimensions, designations, and materials
  • Safety requirements

 

Design and Technology

  • Steam pressure vessels
  • Doors, locks, test ports
  • Pipes and fittings
  • Vacuum systems, wastewater cooling systems
  • Filters (inlet air, ventilation, exhaust air)
  • Connection to drinking water supply
  • Measuring instruments: temperature, time, fill level
  • Temperature and pressure recording (including reference container for liquids)
  • Control systems with error detection

 

Device Groups according to DIN 58951-2

Group Requirements Sterilization goods and application area
A basic Solid items, laboratory equipment, small quantities of liquids in open containers
B basic Solid, porous, and liquid goods
C advanced Solid, porous, and liquid goods
D1 advanced Specific pathogen-free (SPF) areas, sterile animal breeding
D2 advanced SPF animal quarantine areas
E1 advanced Laboratory and clinical waste (without liquids) for disposal
E2 advanced Microbiologically contaminated liquids in larger quantities for disposal

 

Operating Resources & Structural Requirements

  • Electrical supply
  • Sterilization steam from external steam source
  • Feed water, drinking water
  • Compressed air supply
  • Startup and operating conditions
  • Installation space, floor area, and technical connections