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Description
The Bowie & Dick (B&D) test device is used to validate the sterilizer performance for textile load sterilization.
It is made of several sheets of paper wrapped in a small packet in the middle of which there is a chemical heat-sensitive indicator sheet.
How to carry out the test
The test must be performed in an empty chamber (EN13060) without load but with the standard chamber accessories (chamber rack
and trays) mounted.
Place the Bowie & Dick test pack in the center of a tray in the lowest rack position.
Start the cycle: from the CYCLE SELECTION screen (HOME screen) select HELIX B&D TEST (see “Running a sterilization cycle”).
Once the cycle is finished, remove the test pack from the chamber.
Remove the indicator sheet from the center of the test pack and check the change in colour:
TEST PASSED
The entire surface of the
indicator sheet has changed
colour.
TEST FAILED
Certain areas of the indicator sheet have not
changed colour, e.g., the central part has not
turned dark due to an air pocket in the centre of
the test pack.
The test pack is very hot at the end of the cycle! It is normal that the test pack is wet.
Test failure indicates that there was an air pocket present during the cycle due to sterilizer malfunction.
If the test fails repeatedly call technical service.
Follow local/national guidelines on the frequency of testing.
ANNEX 4. Bowie and Dick test