Porous Load Steriliser Training
Weekly Testing Course
A two-day City & Guilds accredited course that trains engineers to carry out the weekly tests on porous load sterilisers specified in HTM 01-01 Part C, combining classroom theory with practical sessions on a working steriliser.
Course code: SYC-PLS-W
Duration: 2 Days
Southampton
£950 Ex VAT
Who is this course for?
This course gives engineers the knowledge they need to carry out weekly porous load steriliser testing in line with current standards, delivered by experts in the decontamination of reusable medical devices. It’s suitable for engineers who want to build their knowledge and experience in porous load steriliser testing.
Aims & Objectives
To give delegates the knowledge and practical skills to carry out weekly tests on porous load sterilisers in accordance with HTM 01-01, and to record the results correctly.
By the end of the course, you will be able to:
By the end of the course, you will be able to:
- Identify the standards and legislation that apply to porous load sterilisers, including HTM 01-01 Part C, BS EN 285 and BS EN ISO 17665
- Explain the principles of steam sterilisation and why air removal is critical for porous loads
- Describe each stage of the cycle profile: air removal, steam admission, holding time and drying
- Define the roles and responsibilities of key personnel under HTM 01-01, including the User, AP(D), CP(D) and AE(D)
- Carry out weekly safety checks
- Perform the air leakage test, automatic control test and steam penetration (Bowie-Dick type) test
- Record test results and identify when a steriliser must be withdrawn from service
Course Details
| Course code | SYC-PLS-W |
| Course duration | 2 days |
| Dates | Available Monday – Fridays, excluding bank holiday weeks. Subject to availability. |
| Training Style | Hands-on practical sessions in small groups, with live working equipment |
| Location | Unit C2 – C4 Adanac Park, Southampton, SO16 0AU |
| Certification | City & Guilds Certificate issued upon completion |
| Price Per Delegate | £950 + VAT |
FAQs
What is a porous load steriliser?
A porous load steriliser is a steam steriliser designed to process wrapped instruments, textiles and other loads that can trap air. It uses active air removal, normally vacuum pulsing, so that saturated steam reaches every surface of the load.
What tests are carried out on a porous load steriliser each week?
Weekly tests under HTM 01-01 Part C include safety checks, an air leakage test, an automatic control test and a steam penetration test. Your site’s written test schedule and the manufacturer’s instructions set the exact sequence.
Do I need previous experience to attend?
No. This is the entry-level course in the porous load steriliser pathway. It is suitable for engineers with no formal steriliser testing qualification.
What course comes next?
SYC-PLS-Q – Porous Load Sterilisers – Quarterly Testing. It builds on this course with thermometric testing and the use of calibrated test instrumentation.
Do I need previous experience to attend?
If you don’t have experience in this sector, we recommend an introduction/ refresher course, so you are familiar with the sector and equipment. If you have previous experience in this sector and with this equipment, this course is a good entry-level course.
