Sterilization and Disinfection Parameters
Use a minimum cycle time of 121-124°C (250-255°F), = 30 minutes,15 psi for the disinfection of medical waste. These parameters are required by the California Department of Public Health for the disinfection of medical waste.
Items have to be hot enough for long enough in the presence of steam to disrupt protein structure. At 121°C, or 250°F, saturated steam destroys vegetative cells and endospores in a small volume (~100mL) within 10-12 min. Treatment must continue for a total of 30 minutes to provide a margin of safety. Sterilization of larger volumes will require a longer cycle time.