Also make sure the drain strainer is clean before each run. Autoclave Safety Autoclaves generate extreme heat and high pressure. Users should understand and respect the hazards these can create. Autoclave doors and their gaskets must be firmly locked into place before running the autoclave to prevent a sudden release of high pressure steam. Most, but not all , autoclaves have safety interlocks that prevent the autoclave from running if the door isn't closed properly.
Some older autoclaves have little or no heat shielding around the outside.
Use heat-resistant gloves when removing materials after sterilization and avoid touching the inner chamber surfaces. If you are burned, you can receive treatment at the University Health Service's Tang Center at 2220 Bancroft Way . Burns to the face, third-degree burns, or burns over large areas of the body should be treated as emergencies. Call 9-911 from a campus phone or 911 from a pay phone to get help. You can treat minor burns yourself using standard first aid.