With the Christmas holidays fast approaching, we’re all starting to think about how we’ll leave our premises for the break. With some practices closing for a week, to 10 days, I’m sure they have a list of checks to go through before they close the practice.
Handpieces are possibly the last item on that list, but we’ve put together a few tips to help with the correct storage over this period.
Firstly, it depends on whether you’re sterilising using a vacuum class B autoclave or non-vacuum. If a non-vacuum is used, be sure the handpieces are thoroughly dried prior to bagging.
The most common problem we see are the Handpieces becoming corroded due to contact with moisture for long periods of time. Trigiene recommends bagging the Handpieces once thoroughly dry or drying with non-linting disposable drying cloths, prior to bagging.
Wherever possible, store handpieces in the vertical position (head up) so that any moisture that may have collected in or around the head can drain away.
HTM01-05 states that you should have a way of monitoring sterilisation dates and rotate in a first-in/ first out system. Unwrapped instruments should be stored and transported in a way that minimises contamination. These boxes provide a clear, safe and identifiable way of transporting contaminated or decontaminated instruments. Best practice requires instruments that aren’t scheduled for current use, to be stored in a separate environment (clean room or designated clean area of decontamination room).
Matthew Evershed
MD of Trigiene Dental
