Iowa Admin. Code r. 481-943.13 - Disinfecting and sterilizing instruments and equipment

All nonporous tools and implements must be either disinfected or sterilized according to the requirements of this rule before use upon a client in schools and establishments.

(1) Disinfection.

a. Nonporous tools and implements.

(1) Immersion method. After each use, all immersible nonporous tools and implements shall be disinfected by cleaning the tools and implements followed by complete immersion in a disinfectant. Disinfectant solutions shall be mixed according to manufacturer label instructions. The manufacturer's listed contact time for effectively eliminating all pathogens shall be adhered to at all times.

(2) Nonimmersion method. After each use, any nonporous item that cannot be immersed in a disinfectant shall be cleaned with soap or detergent and water to remove all organic material and then sprayed or wiped with disinfectant. Minimum disinfectant contact time as listed on the manufacturer's label shall be followed. Nonimmersible tools and implements include but are not limited to scissors, trimmers, clippers, handles of hair dryers and curling/flat irons.

b. Disinfected implements shall be stored in a disinfected, dry, covered container and shall be isolated from contaminants. Such container shall be disinfected at least once each week and whenever visibly dirty.

c. Disinfectant solutions shall be changed as instructed on the solution's manufacturer label or whenever visibly dirty.

d. Electric file bits.

(1) After each use, all visible debris shall be removed from diamond, carbide, natural and metal bits by cleaning with either an ultrasonic cleaner or immersion of each bit in acetone for five to ten minutes.

(2) After they are cleaned, diamond, carbide, natural and metal bits shall be disinfected by complete immersion in an appropriate disinfectant. Minimum disinfectant contact time as listed on the manufacturer's label shall be followed.

(2) Sterilization. Ultraviolet (UV) light boxes are prohibited and are not an acceptable method of sterilization.

a. Tools and implements may be sterilized by one of the following methods:

(1) Steam sterilizer, registered and listed with the FDA and used according to the manufacturer's instructions. If steam sterilization, or moist heat, is utilized, heat exposure shall be at a minimum of 121°C/250°F for at least 30 minutes;

(2) Dry heat sterilizer, registered and listed with the FDA and used according to the manufacturer's instructions. If dry heat sterilization is utilized, heat exposure shall be at a minimum of 171°C/340°F for at least 60 minutes;

(3) Autoclave sterilization equipment, calibrated to ensure that it reaches the temperature required by the manufacturer's instructions. If autoclave sterilization equipment is utilized, spore testing by a contracted independent laboratory shall be performed at least every 30 days. If a positive spore test is received, the autoclave may not be used until a negative spore test is received. The establishment must maintain a log of each autoclave use, all testing samples and results, and a maintenance log of all maintenance performed on the device. Maintenance shall be performed according to the manufacturer's instructions. The establishment must have available for inspection the autoclave maintenance log for the most recent 12 months; or

(4) Chemical sterilization with a hospital grade liquid which, if used, shall be used according to the directions on the label. When chemical sterilization is used, items shall be fully submerged for at least ten minutes.

b. Sterilization equipment shall be maintained in working order. The equipment shall be checked at least monthly and calibrated to ensure that it reaches the temperature required by the manufacturer's instructions.

This rule is intended to implement Iowa Code section 157.6.

Notes

Iowa Admin. Code r. 481-943.13

ARC 2600C, IAB 6/22/16, effective 8/15/2016; ARC 7922C, IAB 5/1/2024, effective 7/1/2024; Editorial change: IAC Supplement 9/18/2024