44:12:02:18Sterile equipment -- Packaging

and storage. All sterile equipment and supplies shall be stored in a closed dustproof container in a manner that prevents contamination. All needles and jewelry shall be individually packaged before autoclaving. Autoclave packages shall be constructed so that contents are visible without opening the package. Autoclave packages containing equipment that has been autoclaved shall be marked with an expiration date. The expiration date may not exceed 30 days from the date autoclaved. Sterile equipment may not be used after the expiration date without being resterilized. Commercially available individually packaged sterilized equipment may be used within the manufacturer's expiration date.

Source: 22 SDR 16, effective August 14, 1995; 39 SDR 119, effective January 8, 2013.