The process of eliminating or destroying all forms of microbial life, including bacteria, viruses, spores, and fungi, to render an object or surface free from living organisms.
A device that uses steam and high pressure to achieve sterilization, commonly employed in healthcare settings to sterilize medical instruments and equipment.
Procedures and practices designed to prevent the introduction of contaminants and maintain a sterile environment during medical procedures, surgeries, or laboratory work.
The process of reducing the number of microorganisms on surfaces to a level considered safe for public health, though not necessarily achieving complete sterilization.
A method using ethylene oxide gas to sterilize heat-sensitive medical devices and equipment, often utilized in the pharmaceutical and healthcare industries.
Sterilization using ionizing radiation, such as gamma rays, to disrupt the DNA and RNA of microorganisms, commonly applied to medical supplies and certain food products.
A test system containing live bacterial spores used to monitor and validate the effectiveness of sterilization processes, ensuring that they are achieving the desired level of microbial destruction.
The probability of a product or item being non-sterile after undergoing a sterilization process, often expressed as a logarithmic reduction of microorganisms.
A controlled environment with low levels of airborne particles, microorganisms, and pollutants, essential for industries like pharmaceuticals and electronics manufacturing to maintain sterile conditions.
An enclosed workspace with a controlled airflow, used in laboratories and cleanrooms to create a sterile environment for handling sensitive materials.