Autoclave Inspections

PSSR examinations for laboratory autoclaves, hospital sterilisers, dental autoclaves and industrial autoclaves.

LDN Inspection Services provides statutory PSSR examinations for autoclaves and sterilisers used across healthcare, dental, laboratory and industrial settings. Our qualified pressure systems engineers examine autoclave chambers, door mechanisms, safety devices and associated systems, delivering clear digital reports and written schemes of examination.

Autoclave PSSR Examinations

Autoclaves are pressure vessels that use steam under pressure for sterilisation and fall under the Pressure Systems Safety Regulations 2000 (PSSR). Whether used in hospitals, dental practices, laboratories or industrial settings, autoclaves contain significant stored energy and must be examined by a competent person at the intervals specified in a written scheme of examination.

Autoclaves undergo repeated pressurisation and depressurisation cycles, combined with high temperatures and moisture, which place significant demands on the chamber, door seals, gaskets and safety devices. Over time, fatigue, corrosion and seal degradation can compromise the integrity of the pressure system.

Our PSSR examinations cover the complete autoclave system including the pressure chamber, door and locking mechanism, gaskets and seals, safety valves, pressure and temperature instrumentation, and associated pipework. We provide written schemes of examination and clear reports that help you maintain compliance with PSSR and related healthcare standards.

Key Requirements

  • A written scheme of examination prepared by a competent person
  • Thorough examination at intervals specified in the written scheme
  • Door interlock and locking mechanism must function correctly
  • Safety valves and pressure relief devices must operate at correct pressures
  • Examination reports retained and defects acted upon promptly

Equipment We Inspect

Our pressure systems engineers examine all types of autoclaves and sterilisation equipment, including:

Laboratory bench-top autoclaves
Hospital sterilisers (large chamber)
Dental autoclaves
Industrial autoclaves
Porous load autoclaves
Fluid cycle autoclaves
Vacuum autoclaves
Gravity displacement autoclaves
Media preparators
Waste autoclaves
Research autoclaves
Veterinary autoclaves

What We Check

Chamber & Structure

  • Chamber wall condition, corrosion and integrity
  • Door mechanism, hinges and locking system
  • Door gasket and seal condition
  • Drain system, strainer and chamber base
  • Tray runners, trays and internal fittings

Safety & Controls

  • Safety valve operation and set pressure verification
  • Door interlock function and safety switches
  • Pressure and temperature gauge accuracy
  • Control system and cycle parameter verification
  • Steam supply pipework and connections

Our Inspection Process

A systematic approach to autoclave examination ensuring safety and PSSR compliance

1

Pre-inspection review of maintenance records, validation data and previous examination reports

2

External examination of the chamber, door mechanism, seals and frame

3

Internal examination of the chamber, trays, baffles and drain system

4

Safety valve and pressure relief device functional testing

5

Door interlock, gasket and locking mechanism assessment

6

Digital report with photographs, defect grading and recommendations

Sectors We Work With

We provide autoclave PSSR examinations for healthcare, dental, laboratory and industrial operators across all sectors

NHS hospitals and healthcare trusts
Dental practices and dental groups
University and research laboratories
Pharmaceutical manufacturing facilities
Veterinary practices and animal hospitals
Tattoo and body piercing studios

Why Choose LDN Inspection Services?

Expert autoclave and pressure systems knowledge, clear reporting and dependable UK-wide service

Experienced pressure systems engineer surveyors
Understanding of healthcare and laboratory environments
Clear digital reports with photographic evidence
Written schemes of examination prepared and certified
Automated reminder service so PSSR dates are never missed
UK-wide coverage with fast turnaround

Autoclave FAQs

Ready to Arrange Your Next Inspection?

Get in touch with our team today for a no-obligation quote and fast support.

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