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Endotoxin & Bioburden Testing/
ISO 11137-2 Sterilization Process Validation and Bioburden TestingISO 11137-2 Sterilization Process Validation and Bioburden Testing: Eurolabs Laboratory Testing Service
The ISO 11137-2 standard, also known as the Sterilization of Medical Devices - Requirements for Validation and Routine Control - Part 2, is a widely recognized international standard that governs sterilization process validation and bioburden testing. This standard is part of the ISO 11137 series, which provides guidelines for validating and controlling sterilization processes.
Legal and Regulatory Framework
The legal and regulatory framework surrounding this testing service is governed by various national and international standards. In the United States, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) requires manufacturers to validate their sterilization processes according to the ISO 11137-2 standard. The European Unions Medical Device Regulation (MDR) also references the ISO 11137-2 standard as a requirement for medical device manufacturers.
International and National Standards
The following international and national standards apply to this specific laboratory test:
Standard Development Organizations
The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) is the primary standard development organization responsible for developing and maintaining the ISO 11137 series. Other organizations, such as the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM), also contribute to the development of standards related to sterilization process validation and bioburden testing.
Evolution of Standards
Standards evolve over time to reflect new scientific discoveries, technological advancements, and changing regulatory requirements. The ISO 11137-2 standard has undergone several revisions since its initial publication in 1995. The most recent revision, published in 2016, introduced significant changes to the sterilization process validation requirements.
Standard Numbers and Scope
The following standard numbers and their scopes apply to this specific laboratory test:
Covers general principles and requirements for sterilization process validation
Covers specific requirements for electron beam (EB) sterilization
Covers specific requirements for hydrogen peroxide gas plasma sterilization
Compliance Requirements
Compliance with the ISO 11137-2 standard is mandatory for manufacturers of medical devices that undergo sterilization processes. This includes:
Why this specific test is needed and required
The ISO 11137-2 standard requires manufacturers to validate their sterilization processes to ensure that medical devices are effectively sterilized. This testing is necessary to prevent the introduction of contaminants into the product, which can lead to adverse health effects.
Business and Technical Reasons
Conducting ISO 11137-2 Sterilization Process Validation and Bioburden Testing is essential for several business and technical reasons:
Consequences of Not Performing this Test
Failure to perform ISO 11137-2 Sterilization Process Validation and Bioburden Testing can have severe consequences, including:
Industries and Sectors
The following industries and sectors require ISO 11137-2 Sterilization Process Validation and Bioburden Testing:
Risk Factors and Safety Implications
This testing service identifies potential risk factors and safety implications associated with sterilization processes, including:
Quality Assurance and Control Aspects
Quality assurance and control are critical components of the ISO 11137-2 standard. Manufacturers must implement quality management systems to ensure that sterilization processes meet regulatory requirements.
Perspective on Quality
Effective quality management ensures:
Conclusion of Standard Requirements and Needs
In conclusion, the ISO 11137-2 standard is a critical component of medical device manufacturing. This testing service ensures compliance with regulatory requirements, prevents product contamination, and supports quality assurance and control efforts.