Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) SLC Practice Exam

What is the minimum temperature and duration often required for sterilization in an autoclave?

1. 100 degrees Celsius for 15 minutes

2. 121 degrees Celsius for 20-30 minutes

3. 150 degrees Celsius for 10 minutes

4. 130 degrees Celsius for 25 minutes

The correct answer is: 121 degrees Celsius for 20-30 minutes

The recommended minimum temperature and duration for sterilization in an autoclave is 121 degrees Celsius for a time period of 20 to 30 minutes. This standard is based on the effectiveness of steam under pressure in killing all forms of microbial life, including resistant spores. At this temperature, the steam penetrates materials effectively, ensuring that the heat reaches all surfaces and items being sterilized. Maintaining this temperature for the specified duration allows for adequate contact time to ensure a thorough sterilization process. This is critical in medical and laboratory settings where sterility is paramount for preventing infections and contamination. Other temperatures, such as 100 degrees Celsius or 150 degrees Celsius, do not provide the same level of efficiency in sterilization and might not guarantee the destruction of all pathogens. The time and temperature guidelines provided by health organizations are derived from extensive research to ensure safe and effective sterilization practices.