South Carolina Code of Regulations
Chapter 61 - DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONTROL
Subchapter 61-91 - Standards for Licensing Ambulatory Surgical Facilities
Sec2 61-91.1500 - INFECTION CONTROL AND ENVIRONMENT
Section 61-91.1500.1504 - Sterilization Procedures (I)

A. Sterilizing equipment of appropriate type shall be available and of adequate capacity to properly sterilize instruments and operating room materials as well as laboratory equipment and supplies. The sterilizing equipment shall have approved control and safety features. The accuracy of instrumentation and equipment shall be tested at least quarterly; periodic calibration and/or preventive maintenance shall be provided as necessary and a history of testing and service maintained.

B. The dates of sterilization and expiration shall be marked on all supplies sterilized in the facility.

EXCEPTION: Facilities may utilize "event-related" methodologies for determining sterile integrity in lieu of "time-related" methods provided there is an established policy and procedure.

C. The facility shall provide for appropriate storage and distribution of sterile supplies and equipment pursuant to facility policies and procedures.

D. Cleaning and disinfection, as needed, of equipment used and/or maintained in each area, appropriate to the area and the equipment's purpose or use, shall be accomplished. A recognized method of monitoring disinfectant performance shall be employed. Disinfectants, e.g., glutraldehyde, Cidex, Sporox, hydrogen peroxide, shall be tested and maintained according to manufacturer's instructions and shall include, at a minimum, a record of readings/testings and change dates of the disinfectant solution.

E. Collection, transportation, and storage of contaminated or used equipment must be performed in a safe manner and in accordance with approved policies and procedures of the Facility.