1225.4.4 Sterile Supplies

Each facility shall provide space for the storage of disposable sterile supplies or provide space for sterilization and disinfection equipment.

Exception: Facilities with contractual arrangements for outside autoclaving and sterilizing services.

If provided, shall accommodate the following:

A central supply and sterilizing area shall be provided. Rooms and spaces shall accommodate the following services and equipment:

1. Soiled work area. A receiving and gross cleaning area which shall contain work space and equipment for cleaning medical and surgical equipment and for disposal of or processing of soiled material.
2. Clean work area. A clean work area which shall contain work space and equipment for sterilizing medical and surgical equipment and supplies.
3. Sterilizing space.
4. Storage. Space for sterile supplies and unsterile supplies.

All sterilizers and autoclaves which emit steam exhaust shall be vented to the outside of the building. Such vents shall be independent from the plumbing vent system.

Exception: Small instrument sterilizers.