What is the recommended practice for cleaning of instruments and equipment in the dental practice?

Cleaning is an essential pre-requisite for all disinfection or sterilisation processes as organic residue (bio-burden) may prevent heat or steam penetration required for effective disinfection or sterilisation. Any instrument or equipment that comes into contact with intact skin must be cleaned before it is used. Any instrument or equipment that is required to be disinfected or sterilised must be cleaned before it is disinfected or sterilised. Cleaning agents shall be used to remove residual soil and organic matter from instruments and equipment. The process of cleaning must involve water and physical or mechanical action (such as instrument washers) and a cleaning agent such as detergents. The cleaning process involves: • rinsing the items with cold or lukewarm water to remove debris such as blood, mucous and tissue • use of water, a chemical agent such as detergent and physical action (ultrasonic cleaner) • where there is no instrument washer available, equipment should be rinsed ...  more