Sterilizers for medical purposes - Low temperature vaporized hydrogen peroxide sterilizers - Requirements and testing

This document specifies requirements and tests for low temperature hydrogen peroxide sterilizers, which use a vaporized aqueous solution of hydrogen peroxide as the sterilizing agent.
These sterilizers are used for the sterilization of medical devices, particularly thermolabile medical devices.
This document specifies minimum requirements
• for the performance and design of sterilizers intended to deliver a process capable of sterilizing medical devices;
• for the equipment and controls of these sterilizers needed for operation, control and monitoring, and which can be used for validation of the sterilization processes;
• for the test equipment and test procedures used to verify the sterilizer performance specified by this document.
This document does not specify requirements for equipment intended to process liquids, biological waste, or human tissues.
This document does not describe a quality management system for the control of all stages of the manufacture of the sterilizer.
This document does not specify requirements and tests for decontamination systems for use in rooms, enclosures, or environmental spaces.
NOTE 1 Attention is drawn to the standards for quality management, e.g. EN ISO 13485.
NOTE 2 Environmental aspects of this standard are addressed in Annex H.

Sterilisatoren für medizinische Zwecke - Niedertemperatur-Sterilisatoren mit verdampftem Wasserstoffperoxid - Anforderungen und Prüfverfahren

Dieses Dokument legt Anforderungen und Prüfverfahren für Niedertemperatur-Wasserstoffperoxid-Sterilisatoren fest, in denen als sterilisierendes Agens eine verdampfte wässrige Lösung von Wasserstoffperoxid verwendet wird.
Diese Sterilisatoren werden zur Sterilisation von Medizinprodukten, insbesondere von thermolabilen Medizinprodukten, verwendet.
Dieses Dokument legt Mindestanforderungen zu folgenden Punkten fest:
— an die Leistung und Konstruktion von Sterilisatoren, um ein Verfahren bereitzustellen, das in der Lage ist, Medizinprodukte zu sterilisieren;
— an die Ausrüstung und Bedienelemente dieser Sterilisatoren, die für den Betrieb, die Steuerung und Überwachung erforderlich sind und welche bei der Validierung der Sterilisationsverfahren angewendet werden können;
— an die Prüfgeräte und Prüfverfahren, die zur Verifizierung der nach diesem Dokument festgelegten Leistung des Sterilisators angewendet werden.
Dieses Dokument legt keine Anforderungen an Geräte fest, die für die Aufbereitung von Flüssigkeiten, Bioabfall oder menschlichen Geweben vorgesehen sind, es sei denn sie sind Bestandteil eines Medizinprodukts.
Dieses Dokument beschreibt kein Qualitätsmanagementsystem für die Lenkung aller Stufen der Herstellung des Sterilisators.
ANMERKUNG Es wird auf die Normen zum Qualitätsmanagement verwiesen, z. B. EN ISO 13485.
Dieses Dokument legt keine Anforderungen an und Prüfungen für Dekontaminationssysteme zur Verwendung in Räumen, umschlossenen Räumen oder umgebenden Räumen fest.

Stérilisateurs à usage médical - Stérilisateurs à la vapeur de peroxyde d’hydrogène à basse température - Exigences et essais

Sterilizatorji za uporabo v medicini - Sterilizatorji s paro z nizko temperaturo in z vodikovim peroksidom - Zahteve in preskušanje

General Information

Status
Not Published
Publication Date
23-Apr-2026
Current Stage
4599 - Dispatch of FV draft to CMC - Finalization for Vote
Completion Date
16-Oct-2025

Overview

FprEN 17180 - Sterilizers for medical purposes: Low temperature vapourized hydrogen peroxide (VH2O2) sterilizers - Requirements and testing (CEN draft) specifies minimum requirements and test methods for low temperature vaporized hydrogen peroxide sterilizers used to sterilize medical devices, particularly thermolabile medical devices. The standard defines performance, design, instrumentation, control and monitoring requirements, and the test procedures and test equipment needed to verify sterilizer performance and support sterilization validation.

Key topics and requirements

  • Scope and exclusions: Applies to low temperature VH2O2 sterilizers for medical devices. It does not cover equipment to process liquids, biological waste, or human tissues, nor does it set a quality management system for manufacture or address room/environmental decontamination systems.
  • Performance and design requirements: Minimum criteria for sterilizer chamber construction, materials, dimensions, doors/interlocks, insulation, pipework, vaporizers and evacuation systems.
  • Controls and monitoring: Requirements for automatic controllers, pre-set programmes, instrumentation (temperature, pressure, time, sterilant concentration), status indicators, recorders and digital/analog data logging needed for operation and process validation.
  • Safety, usability and risk control: Protective measures, interlocks, failure modes (including power failure behavior), and usability considerations.
  • Testing and validation: Test connections, test instrumentation, recommended test programmes and procedures to demonstrate sterilant exposure and microbiological performance (including reduced cycles and efficacy testing).
  • Services and emissions: Requirements for electrical supply, vacuum, ventilation, sterilant supply, exhaust emissions, and environmental aspects (see Annex H).
  • Information and documentation: Required information prior to purchase/installation, marking, labelling and instructions for use, plus packaging requirements.

Applications

  • Validation and commissioning of VH2O2 sterilizers for hospitals, clinics and sterile services departments.
  • Design and manufacturing guidance for sterilizer producers to meet regulatory and performance expectations.
  • Type testing and performance verification by test laboratories and notified bodies.
  • Procurement specifications for healthcare and medical device reprocessing facilities seeking compliant low temperature sterilization equipment.

Who should use this standard

  • Sterilizer manufacturers and product designers
  • Hospital sterile services managers and biomedical engineers
  • Test laboratories and conformity assessment bodies
  • Procurement teams specifying sterilization equipment
  • Regulatory and compliance professionals involved in medical device reprocessing

Related standards

  • EN ISO 13485 (quality management for medical device manufacturing) is referenced in the document notes. For sterilization programme validation and microbiological testing, users should consult applicable national and international guidance in addition to this CEN draft.

Keywords: FprEN 17180, low temperature vaporized hydrogen peroxide sterilizers, VH2O2 sterilizers, medical device sterilization, sterilization validation, CEN standard.

Frequently Asked Questions

FprEN 17180 is a draft published by the European Committee for Standardization (CEN). Its full title is "Sterilizers for medical purposes - Low temperature vaporized hydrogen peroxide sterilizers - Requirements and testing". This standard covers: This document specifies requirements and tests for low temperature hydrogen peroxide sterilizers, which use a vaporized aqueous solution of hydrogen peroxide as the sterilizing agent. These sterilizers are used for the sterilization of medical devices, particularly thermolabile medical devices. This document specifies minimum requirements • for the performance and design of sterilizers intended to deliver a process capable of sterilizing medical devices; • for the equipment and controls of these sterilizers needed for operation, control and monitoring, and which can be used for validation of the sterilization processes; • for the test equipment and test procedures used to verify the sterilizer performance specified by this document. This document does not specify requirements for equipment intended to process liquids, biological waste, or human tissues. This document does not describe a quality management system for the control of all stages of the manufacture of the sterilizer. This document does not specify requirements and tests for decontamination systems for use in rooms, enclosures, or environmental spaces. NOTE 1 Attention is drawn to the standards for quality management, e.g. EN ISO 13485. NOTE 2 Environmental aspects of this standard are addressed in Annex H.

This document specifies requirements and tests for low temperature hydrogen peroxide sterilizers, which use a vaporized aqueous solution of hydrogen peroxide as the sterilizing agent. These sterilizers are used for the sterilization of medical devices, particularly thermolabile medical devices. This document specifies minimum requirements • for the performance and design of sterilizers intended to deliver a process capable of sterilizing medical devices; • for the equipment and controls of these sterilizers needed for operation, control and monitoring, and which can be used for validation of the sterilization processes; • for the test equipment and test procedures used to verify the sterilizer performance specified by this document. This document does not specify requirements for equipment intended to process liquids, biological waste, or human tissues. This document does not describe a quality management system for the control of all stages of the manufacture of the sterilizer. This document does not specify requirements and tests for decontamination systems for use in rooms, enclosures, or environmental spaces. NOTE 1 Attention is drawn to the standards for quality management, e.g. EN ISO 13485. NOTE 2 Environmental aspects of this standard are addressed in Annex H.

FprEN 17180 is classified under the following ICS (International Classification for Standards) categories: 11.080.10 - Sterilizing equipment. The ICS classification helps identify the subject area and facilitates finding related standards.

FprEN 17180 is associated with the following European legislation: EU Directives/Regulations: 2017/745; Standardization Mandates: M/575, M/575 AMD 1, M/575 AMD 2. When a standard is cited in the Official Journal of the European Union, products manufactured in conformity with it benefit from a presumption of conformity with the essential requirements of the corresponding EU directive or regulation.

You can purchase FprEN 17180 directly from iTeh Standards. The document is available in PDF format and is delivered instantly after payment. Add the standard to your cart and complete the secure checkout process. iTeh Standards is an authorized distributor of CEN standards.

Standards Content (Sample)


SLOVENSKI STANDARD
01-maj-2023
Sterilizatorji za uporabo v medicini - Sterilizatorji s paro z nizko temperaturo in z
vodikovim peroksidom - Zahteve in preskušanje
Sterilizers for medical purposes - Low temperature vapourized hydrogen peroxide
sterilizers - Requirements and testing
Sterilisatoren für medizinische Zwecke - Niedertemperatur-Sterilisatoren mit
verdampftem Wasserstoffperoxid - Anforderungen und Prüfverfahren
Stérilisateurs à usage médical Stérilisateurs à la vapeur de peroxyde dhydrogène à
basse température Exigences et essais
Ta slovenski standard je istoveten z: prEN 17180
ICS:
11.080.10 Sterilizacijska oprema Sterilizing equipment
2003-01.Slovenski inštitut za standardizacijo. Razmnoževanje celote ali delov tega standarda ni dovoljeno.

DRAFT
EUROPEAN STANDARD
prEN 17180
NORME EUROPÉENNE
EUROPÄISCHE NORM
February 2023
ICS
English Version
Sterilizers for medical purposes - Low temperature
vapourized hydrogen peroxide sterilizers - Requirements
and testing
Stérilisateurs à usage médical ¿ Stérilisateurs à la Sterilisatoren für medizinische Zwecke -
vapeur de peroxyde d¿hydrogène à basse température Niedertemperatur-Sterilisatoren mit verdampftem
¿ Exigences et essais Wasserstoffperoxid - Anforderungen und
Prüfverfahren; Deutsche und Englische Fassung PWI
EN 17180:2019
This draft European Standard is submitted to CEN members for enquiry. It has been drawn up by the Technical Committee
CEN/TC 102.
If this draft becomes a European Standard, CEN members are bound to comply with the CEN/CENELEC Internal Regulations
which stipulate the conditions for giving this European Standard the status of a national standard without any alteration.

This draft European Standard was established by CEN in three official versions (English, French, German). A version in any other
language made by translation under the responsibility of a CEN member into its own language and notified to the CEN-CENELEC
Management Centre has the same status as the official versions.

CEN members are the national standards bodies of Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia,
Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway,
Poland, Portugal, Republic of North Macedonia, Romania, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Türkiye and
United Kingdom.
Recipients of this draft are invited to submit, with their comments, notification of any relevant patent rights of which they are
aware and to provide supporting documentation.

Warning : This document is not a European Standard. It is distributed for review and comments. It is subject to change without
notice and shall not be referred to as a European Standard.

EUROPEAN COMMITTEE FOR STANDARDIZATION
COMITÉ EUROPÉEN DE NORMALISATION

EUROPÄISCHES KOMITEE FÜR NORMUNG

CEN-CENELEC Management Centre: Rue de la Science 23, B-1040 Brussels
© 2023 CEN All rights of exploitation in any form and by any means reserved Ref. No. prEN 17180:2023 E
worldwide for CEN national Members.

prEN 17180:2023 (E)
Contents Page
European foreword . 7
Introduction . 8
1 Scope . 9
2 Normative references . 9
3 Terms and definitions . 10
4 General. 22
4.1 Sterilizer type definition . 22
4.2 Equipment development . 23
4.3 Calibration . 23
5 Equipment design and Construction . 24
5.1 Safety and security . 24
5.1.1 General. 24
5.1.2 Protective measures . 24
5.1.3 Risk control and usability . 25
5.2 Sterilizer chamber . 26
5.2.1 Materials . 26
5.2.2 Chamber dimensions . 26
5.2.3 Doors and interlocks of the sterilizer chamber . 27
5.2.4 Temperature control and insulation of the sterilizer chamber . 28
5.2.5 Test connections . 28
5.3 Further functional components . 29
5.3.1 Pipework and fittings . 29
5.3.2 H O vaporizer . 29
2 2
5.3.3 Evacuation system . 29
5.4 Framework and panelling . 30
5.5 Vibration . 30
5.6 Ancillary equipment and components . 30
5.7 Transport . 31
5.8 User interfaces . 31
6 Indicating, monitoring, controlling, and recording devices . 32
6.1 General. 32
6.1.1 Pre-set Programme . 32
6.1.2 Automatic controller . 32
6.2 Automatic control . 32
6.3 Control and monitoring system . 34
6.4 Failure . 36
6.4.1 General. 36
6.4.2 Fault . 36
6.4.3 Power failure . 37
6.4.4 Other failures . 37
6.5 Instrumentation . 38
6.5.1 General. 38
6.5.2 Temperature measuring devices . 38
6.5.3 Pressure measuring devices . 39
prEN 17180:2023 (E)
6.5.4 Time measuring devices . 40
6.5.5 Sterilizing agent control and measuring devices . 41
Indicating devices . 41
6.5.6 General . 41
6.5.7 Cycle parameter indicating devices . 41
6.5.8 Cycle parameter indications . 43
6.5.9 Status indicators and indications . 43
6.5.10 Operating cycle counter . 44
6.6 Recorders . 44
6.6.1 General . 44
6.6.2 Records . 45
Table 1 — Example for VH2O2 operating cycle and data to be recorded (for cycle profile, see
Figure 1) . 46
Figure 1 — Schematic example of a VH2O2 operating cycle profile (for programme step
numbering and related operating cycle stages, see Table 1) . 47
6.6.3 Analog presentation of records . 48
6.6.4 Digital records . 48
6.6.5 Data format for applied sterilant amount . 48
6.7 Operating cycles . 48
6.7.1 General . 48
6.7.2 Leak test . 48
6.7.3 Sterilization cycles . 49
7 Services and local environment . 49
7.1 General . 49
7.2 Sterilant and sterilizing agent . 50
7.3 Electrical supply . 50
7.4 Water . 51
7.5 Steam . 51
7.6 Vacuum . 51
7.7 Lighting . 51
7.8 Drainage and discharges . 51
7.9 Compressed air . 51
7.10 Air and inert gases. 52
7.11 Ventilation and environment . 52
8 Emissions . 52
8.1 Electromagnetic emissions . 52
8.2 Noise . 52
8.3 Exhaust emissions . 53
8.4 Heat emission . 53
9 Test instrumentation . 54
10 Performance and assessment . 54
10.1 General . 54
Table 2 — Recommended testing to demonstrate Sterilizing Agent Exposure . 55
Figure 2 — Schematic example of a VH2O2 operating cycle profile demonstrating
relationship of cycle variables . 56
10.2 Attainment conditions . 57
10.2.1 Temperature reference measurement point . 57
10.2.2 H O temperature band . 57
2 2
10.2.3 Temperature profile . 57
prEN 17180:2023 (E)
10.2.4 Pressure profile requirements . 57
10.2.5 Sterilant and sterilizing agent . 58
10.3 Microbiological performance . 59
10.3.1 General. 59
10.3.2 Reduced cycle . 59
10.3.3 Microbiological efficacy . 59
10.4 Load dryness . 59
11 Information to be supplied . 60
11.1 General. 60
11.2 Information to be available prior to purchase . 60
11.3 Information prior to installation . 60
11.4 Marking and labelling . 61
11.5 Instructions for use . 62
12 Packaging . 63
Annex A (informative) Test programme . 64
A.1 General. 64
A.2 Type test . 65
A.3 Works test . 66
A.4 Installation qualification (IQ) provisions . 66
Annex B (normative) Test instrumentation . 67
B.1 General. 67
B.2 Pressure instrumentation . 67
B.3 Pressure recording . 67
B.4 Temperature probes . 68
B.5 Temperature recording instrument . 68
B.6 Sterilant supply and concentration measurement system . 68
B.7 Penetration Type Test devices (PTTDs) . 69
B.7.1 General. 69
B.7.2 PTTD construction. 69
B.7.3 Indicator systems for PTTDs . 70
B.7.4 Other type test devices . 71
B.7.5 Biological indicators and indicator systems . 71
B.8 Sterile barrier systems . 71
B.8.1 General. 71
B.8.2 Sterile Barrier Systems for standard test loads . 72
Annex C (normative) Test loads . 73
C.1 General. 73
C.2 General. 73
C.2.1 Test load unit . 73
C.2.2 Small load . 74
prEN 17180:2023 (E)
C.3 General . 74
C.3.1 Full load . 74
Annex D (normative) Test procedures. 75
D.1 General . 75
Figure D.1 — Biological indicator and small load unit locations for conducting physical and
microbiological performance test in cylindrical chambers . 77
Figure D.2 — Biological indicator and small load unit locations for conducting physical and
microbiological performance test in rectangular chambers . 78
D.2 Test procedures . 78
D.2.1 Sterilizer chamber temperature test . 78
D.2.2 Microbiological empty chamber distribution test . 79
D.2.3 Small load physical performance test . 79
D.2.4 Small load microbiological performance test . 80
D.2.5 Full load physical performance test. 80
D.2.6 Full load microbiological performance test . 81
D.2.7 Penetration performance test with PTTD . 81
D.2.8 Air Leakage test . 82
D.2.9 Drying test . 82
Annex E (informative) Measurement of hydrogen peroxide . 83
E.1 General . 83
E.2 H O in liquids . 83
2 2
E.2.1 Selection of test method . 83
E.2.2 Spectrometric analysis of H O contents in liquids . 84
2 2
E.2.2.1 Equipment . 84
E.2.2.2 Calibration. 84
E.2.2.3 Operation . 85
E.3 H O in gaseous compositions . 85
2 2
E.3.1 Selection of measurement method . 85
E.3.2 Measurement of gaseous H2O2 using electro chemical sensors . 86
E.3.3 Calibration and operation . 86
Annex F (normative) Efficacy of H O removal . 87
2 2
F.1 H O in ambient air . 87
2 2
F.1.1 Purpose of test . 87
F.1.2 Test scope . 87
F.1.3 Instrumentation . 87
F.1.4 Acceptance criteria . 87
prEN 17180:2023 (E)
F.2 Liquid H O on load . 87
2 2
F.2.1 Purpose of test . 87
F.2.2 Test scope . 88
F.2.3 Acceptance criteria. 88
Annex G (normative) Protective measures. 89
Annex H (informative) Environmental aspects . 91
H.1 Environmental aspects regarding the life cycle of VH2O2 sterilizers - General
Environmental aspects . 91
H.2 Hydrogen peroxide . 91
H.2.1 Physico-Chemical properties . 92
H.2.2 Classification criteria and labelling requirements . 92
H.3 Environmental impact . 93
Annex I (informative) Illustrations of the interrelationship between control and recording
................................................................................................................................................................... 96
I.1 Introduction . 96
I.1.1 General. 96
I.1.2 Illustration 1 . 96
Figure I.1 — Illustration 1 of the interrelationship between control and recording [Source:
ISO/TS 22421:2021, Figure B.1] . 97
I.2 Illustration 2 . 98
Figure I.2 — Illustration 2 of the interrelationship between control and recording [Source:
ISO/TS 22421:2021, Figure B.2] . 98
I.3 Illustration 3 . 99
I.3.1 General. 99
I.3.2 Main objectives . 100
I.3.3 Control data processing system . 100
I.3.4 Independent data processing system . 100
I.3.5 Cycle control function . 100
I.3.6 Means for failure detection . 101
I.3.7 Data retention module . 101
I.3.8 Controls and indicating devices . 101
I.3.9 Recorder . 101
I.3.10 Optional printer . 101
Annex J (normative) Technical information and documentation . 102
Annex ZA (informative) Relationship between this European Standard and the General
Safety and Performance Requirements of Regulation (EU) 2017/745 aimed to be
covered . 104
Bibliography . 121
prEN 17180:2023 (E)
European foreword
This document (prEN 17180:2023) has been prepared by Technical Committee CEN/TC 102 “Sterilizers
for medical purposes”, the secretariat of which is held by DIN.
This document is currently submitted to the CEN Enquiry.
A first draft (prEN 17180:2017) was published in 2017, but the status of the project was set back to a
preliminary work item. The following changes were made to the first draft:
— the structure of the main text has been widely adapted to the structure of ISO/TS 22421:2021 and
harmonized with the current revisions of EN 14180 and EN 1422 in 2022;
— most definitions have been adapted with reference to EN ISO 11139:2018;
— a separate clause ‘Protective measures’ has been implemented for referencing to individual clauses
of EN IEC 61010-2-040 and an Annex G ‘protective measures’ has been created;
— requirements on the control and monitoring system have been merged into a clause and informative
illustrations have been provided in an Annex I;
— an Annex J ‘Technical information and documentation’ has been added to consider Annex II of the
European Medical Device Regulation (MDR).
This document has been prepared under a standardization request given to CEN by the European
Commission and the European Free Trade Association and supports essential requirements of EU
Regulation(s).
For relationship with EU Regulation(s), see informative Annex ZA, which is an integral part of this
document.
prEN 17180:2023 (E)
Introduction
This document specifies minimum requirements and test methods for sterilizers performing a low
temperature sterilization process using a composition of water and hydrogen peroxide (H O ),
2 2
vaporized, and injected into the sterilizer chamber as sterilizing agent. Vaporized hydrogen peroxide
(H O ) sterilizers process typically below 60°C and are primarily used for the sterilization of
2 2
thermolabile or moisture-sensitive medical devices in health care facilities but can also be used for
sterilization of other reusable medical devices that have been established to be compatible with VH2O2
processes. The sterilizers operate automatically using pre-set cycles. VH2O2 sterilizers can also be used
by medical device manufacturers during commercial production.
Like the other standardized low temperature sterilization processes using ethylene oxide (EN 1422 and
EN ISO 11135) or low temperature steam and formaldehyde (EN 14180 and EN ISO 25424), the VH2O2
sterilization processes are specified by physical and chemical parameters and verified using physical,
chemical, and microbiological means. The sterilizers operate automatically using pre-set cycles.
The tests described in this document are reference tests intended to demonstrate conformity with the
performance requirements specified in this document. They may be used in type tests, works tests, in
validation and re-qualification, or in periodic and routine tests carried out by the user. Validation and
routine control of sterilization processes are essential to ensure their efficacy. This document does not
cover validation and routine control of a VH2O2 sterilization process. EN ISO 14937 provides general
requirements and guidance on validation and routine control of such processes. ISO 22441 provides
specific requirements for validation and routine control of VH2O2 sterilization.
Some VH2O2 sterilizers have processes that demonstrate some level of inactivation of the causative
agents of spongiform encephalopathies such as scrapie, bovine spongiform encephalopathy, and
Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease. However, this inactivation is process, cycle, and test protocol specific, and not
equipment specific, therefore this inactivation is not addressed in this document, and no specific test
methods are provided.
Planning and design of products applying to this document should consider not only technical aspects
but also the environmental impact from the product during its life cycle. Environmental aspects are
addressed in Annex H of this document.
NOTE Specifications on general equipment safety are addressed in EN 61010-1, EN IEC 61010-2-040, and are
not repeated in this document. EN 60204-1 can also apply (see Annex G). Requirements on occupational safety and
health are not specified in this document. National regulations can exist.
prEN 17180:2023 (E)
1 Scope
This document specifies requirements and tests for low temperature hydrogen peroxide sterilizers, using
vaporized aqueous solution of hydrogen peroxide as the sterilizing agent.
These sterilizers are used for the sterilization of medical devices, particularly thermolabile medical
devices.
This document specifies minimum requirements:
— for the performance and design of sterilizers intended to deliver a process capable of sterilizing
medical devices;
— for the equipment and controls of these sterilizers needed for operation, control, and monitoring,
and which can be used for validation of the sterilization processes;
— for the test equipment and test procedures used to verify the sterilizer performance specified by this
document.
This document does not specify requirements for equipment intended to process liquids, biological
waste, or human tissues unless part of a medical device.
This document does not describe a quality management system for the control of all stages of the
manufacture of the sterilizer.
NOTE Attention is drawn to the standards for quality management, e.g. EN ISO 13485.
This document does not specify requirements and tests for decontamination systems for use in rooms,
enclosures, or environmental spaces.
2 Normative references
The following documents are referred to in the text in such a way that some or all of their content
constitutes requirements of this document. For dated references, only the edition cited applies. For
undated references, the latest edition of the referenced document (including any amendments) applies.
EN 868-5:2018, Packaging for terminally sterilized medical devices - Part 5: Sealable pouches and reels of
porous materials and plastic film construction - Requirements and test methods
EN 868-9:2018, Packaging for terminally sterilized medical devices - Part 9: Uncoated nonwoven materials
of polyolefines - Requirements and test methods
EN 60204-1:2018, Safety of machinery - Electrical equipment of machines - Part 1: General requirements
EN 60584-1:2013, Thermocouples - Part 1: EMF specifications and tolerances
EN 61010-1:2010, Safety requirements for electrical equipment for measurement, control, and laboratory
use - Part 1: General requirements
EN IEC 61326-1:2021, Electrical equipment for measurement, control and laboratory use - EMC
requirements - Part 1: General requirements
EN 62366-1:2015/A1:2020, Medical devices - Part 1: Application of usability engineering to medical
devices
EN IEC 60751:2022, Industrial platinum resistance thermometers and platinum temperature sensors
prEN 17180:2023 (E)
EN IEC 61010-2-040:2021, Safety requirements for electrical equipment for measurement, control, and
laboratory use - Part 2-040: Particular requirements for sterilizers and washer-disinfectors used to treat
medical materials
EN ISO 3746:2010, Acoustics - Determination of sound power levels and sound energy levels of noise sources
using sound pressure - Survey method using an enveloping measurement surface over a reflecting plane (ISO
3746:2010)
EN ISO 11138-1:2017, Sterilization of health care products - Biological indicators - Part 1: General
requirements (ISO 11138-1:2017)
EN ISO 11607-1:2020, Packaging for terminally sterilized medical devices - Part 1: Requirements for
materials, sterile barrier systems and packaging systems (ISO 11607-1:2019)
EN ISO 11607-2:2020, Packaging for terminally sterilized medical devices - Part 2: Validation requirements
for forming, sealing and assembly processes (ISO 11607-2:2019)
EN ISO 14971:2019, Medical devices - Application of risk management to medical devices (ISO 14971:2019)
EN ISO 15223-1:2021, Medical devices - Symbols to be used with information to be supplied by the
manufacturer - Part 1: General requirements (ISO 15223-1:2021)
EN ISO 20417:2021, Medical devices - Information to be supplied by the manufacturer (ISO 20417:2021,
Corrected version 2021-12)
ISO 2861:2020, Vacuum technology — Dimensions of clamped-type quick-release couplings
ISO 22441:2022, Sterilization of health care products — Low temperature vaporized hydrogen peroxide —
Requirements for the development, validation and routine control of a sterilization process for medical
devices
3 Terms and definitions
For the purposes of this document, the following terms and definitions apply.
ISO and IEC maintain terminological databases for use in standardization at the following addresses:
• IEC Electropedia: available at https://www.electropedia.org/
• ISO Online browsing platform: available at https://www.iso.org/obp
3.1
access device
means by which entry to restricted parts of equipment is achieved
Note 1 to entry: This can be by dedicated key, code, or tool.
[SOURCE: EN ISO 11139:2018, 3.4]
3.2
accompanying information
information accompanying or marked on a sterilizer and containing information for the user or those
accountable for the installation, use, maintenance, decommissioning and disposal of the sterilizer,
particularly regarding safe use
prEN 17180:2023 (E)
Note 1 to entry: The accompanying information can be regarded as part of the sterilizer.
Note 2 to entry: The accompanying information can consist of the label (see 3.29), marking, instructions for use,
technical description, installation manual, quick reference guide, etc.
Note 3 to entry: Accompanying information is not necessarily a written or printed document but could involve
auditory, visual, or tactile materials and multiple media types (e.g. CD/DVD-ROM, USB stick, website).
[SOURCE: EN ISO 20417:2021, 3.2, modified — “Medical device or accessory” has been changed to
“sterilizer”, the term “processing” has been removed, Note 1 to entry has been modified to exclude a
requirement and Note 4 to entry has been deleted.]
3.3
automatic controller
device that directs the equipment sequentially throug
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prEN 17180は、医療用低温蒸気過酸化水素滅菌器に関する標準として、非常に重要な要素を提供しています。この文書は、低温過酸化水素滅菌器の性能と設計に関する必須要件を明確に規定しており、医療機器の特に熱に弱い機器を滅菌するために必要なプロセスの信頼性を保証します。 標準の範囲は、滅菌器の運用、制御および監視に必要な機器および制御装置の要件を含んでおり、滅菌プロセスの検証に使用できるようになっています。さらに、滅菌器の性能を確認するための試験機器や試験手順についても詳細に説明されています。これにより、医療機関は滅菌器の信頼性を確認し、安全かつ効果的に使用するための強力な基盤を得ることができます。 また、prEN 17180は液体、バイオハザード廃棄物、人間の組織の処理を意図した機器の要件を規定していない点も重要です。この制限により、標準は特定の用途に特化したものとなり、医療用低温蒸気過酸化水素滅菌器に対する要求事項が明確になります。さらに、製造のすべての段階を管理するための品質管理システムについては扱っておらず、これによりユーザーは必要な品質基準を別途確認する必要があります。 この文書は、特に医療分野における滅菌器の信頼性と効果を向上させるための重要な土台を提供しており、医療機器業界での適用が期待されます。さらに、環境面に関する留意点も附属書Hで触れられており、持続可能な医療の実現に向けた配慮がなされています。全体として、prEN 17180は低温蒸気過酸化水素滅菌器の要求事項と試験に関する包括的な標準として、その関連性が高いことが示されています。

Die Norm prEN 17180 ist von großer Bedeutung im Bereich der Medizintechnik, insbesondere für die Sterilisation thermolabiler medizinischer Geräte. Sie legt spezifische Anforderungen und Prüfmethoden für Niedrigtemperatur-Sterilisatoren fest, die eine verdampfte wässrige Lösung von Wasserstoffperoxid als Sterilisationsmittel verwenden. Dies ist besonders relevant, da solche Sterilisatoren in den letzten Jahren an Bedeutung gewonnen haben, um die Sicherheit und Wirksamkeit von medizinischen Geräten zu gewährleisten. Ein herausragendes Merkmal dieser Norm ist die präzise Definition von Mindestanforderungen an die Leistung und das Design der Sterilisatoren. Diese Anforderungen sind für die Entwicklung effizienter Prozesse zur Sterilisation von medizinischen Geräten von entscheidender Bedeutung. Darüber hinaus werden spezifische Anforderungen an die Ausrüstung und Steuerung dieser Sterilisatoren festgelegt, die für den Betrieb, die Kontrolle und die Überwachung sowie für die Validierung der Sterilisationsprozesse notwendig sind. Die Norm behandelt auch die Testausrüstung und die Prüfverfahren, die erforderlich sind, um die Leistung der Sterilisatoren gemäß den festgelegten Vorgaben zu überprüfen. Dies stärkt die Zuverlässigkeit und Konsistenz der Sterilisationsprozesse, da die Norm einen klaren Rahmen für die Durchführung dieser Tests bietet. Obwohl die Norm eine umfassende Grundlage für die Sicherheit und Effektivität der Niedrigtemperatur-Wasserstoffperoxid-Sterilisatoren liefert, ist es wichtig zu beachten, dass sie keine Anforderungen für die Verarbeitung von Flüssigkeiten, biologischen Abfällen oder menschlichem Gewebe spezifiziert. Dies grenzt den Anwendungsbereich der Norm klar ab und fokussiert sich auf den spezifischen Rahmen der medizinischen Geräte. Die Hinweise zur Qualitätssicherung, wie etwa auf die Norm EN ISO 13485, zeigen auch das Bewusstsein für die Notwendigkeit eines integrierten Ansatzes zur Qualität innerhalb der gesamten Herstellungsprozesse von Sterilisatoren. Dies ist ein starker Punkt, der die Relevanz der prEN 17180 in Bezug auf die Sicherstellung von hohen Qualitätsstandards unterstreicht. Insgesamt stellt die prEN 17180 eine essentielle Norm dar, die nicht nur die technischen Anforderungen und Prüfmethoden für Niedrigtemperatur-Wasserstoffperoxid-Sterilisatoren definiert, sondern auch eine Grundlage für die Sicherheit und Zuverlässigkeit solcher Sterilisationsmethoden bietet. Die klaren Spezifikationen und der Fokus auf die Validierung der Prozesse machen diese Norm zu einem wertvollen Instrument für Hersteller und Nutzer von medizinischen Geräten.

La norme prEN 17180, intitulée « Stérilisateurs à usage médical - Stérilisateurs à peroxyde d'hydrogène vaporisé à basse température - Exigences et tests », fournit un cadre solide pour les stérilisateurs destinés à la désinfection des dispositifs médicaux thermolabiles. Son contenu est particulièrement pertinent pour les fabricants et les utilisateurs de ces technologies, car elle précise les exigences minimales tant en termes de performance que de conception des stérilisateurs. Les forces de cette norme résident dans sa capacité à établir des critères clairs pour les équipements et les contrôles nécessaires à l'opération, la surveillance et la validation des processus de stérilisation. En définissant ces exigences, la norme prEN 17180 assure non seulement une protection accrue des dispositifs médicaux, mais aussi une standardisation des pratiques, ce qui est crucial pour la sécurité des patients. En outre, le document met en avant l'importance des équipements de test et des procédures de test indispensables pour vérifier la performance des stérilisateurs. Cette approche garantit que les dispositifs conviennent réellement aux exigences de stérilisation, renforçant ainsi la confiance des utilisateurs dans les produits finaux. Cependant, il est important de noter que cette norme ne couvre pas tous les aspects liés à la stérilisation – elle n'inclut pas les équipements destinés au traitement des liquides, des déchets biologiques ou des tissus humains, ce qui peut limiter son champ d'application dans certains contextes. De même, elle ne décrit pas de système de gestion de la qualité pour le contrôle de toutes les étapes de fabrication des stérilisateurs, bien que l'accent soit mis sur l'importance des normes de gestion de la qualité telles que EN ISO 13485. Les aspects environnementaux sont également considérés, comme en témoigne l'Annexe H, ce qui montre une prise de conscience croissante des implications écologiques des processus de stérilisation. En somme, la norme prEN 17180 se distingue par sa clarté, sa structure et sa pertinence dans le domaine de la stérilisation des dispositifs médicaux. Elle représente une étape importante vers l'harmonisation des pratiques de stérilisation à faible température, garantissant la sécurité et l'efficacité des dispositifs utilisés dans les soins de santé.

The standard prEN 17180, titled "Sterilizers for medical purposes - Low temperature vaporized hydrogen peroxide sterilizers - Requirements and testing," provides a comprehensive framework for ensuring the effective sterilization of thermolabile medical devices using vaporized aqueous solutions of hydrogen peroxide. The scope of the standard clearly delineates the critical parameters necessary for the design and operation of these sterilizers, emphasizing their application in the healthcare sector where sterilization efficacy is vital for patient safety. One of the key strengths of prEN 17180 lies in its detailed articulation of minimum performance requirements for sterilizers. This standard establishes a baseline for the design of sterilization processes that are both effective and reliable. The inclusion of specifications for equipment and controls is essential, as it allows for proper operation, control, monitoring, and validation, ensuring that medical devices are sterilized adequately before use. The outlined testing procedures further solidify the standard's robustness, offering a clear methodology for verifying the performance of hydrogen peroxide sterilizers. This thorough approach not only enhances safety but also promotes consistency across different sterilization practices. Additionally, Annex H addresses the environmental aspects associated with the use of hydrogen peroxide sterilizers, highlighting the standard's relevance in promoting eco-friendly practices within the medical field. This incorporation of environmental considerations is increasingly important in today's healthcare landscape, where sustainability is becoming a priority. However, it is important to note the limitations set forth in the standard. By explicitly excluding requirements for the processing of liquids, biological waste, or human tissues, the standard maintains its focused scope on low-temperature hydrogen peroxide sterilizers and does not attempt to cover the entire sterilization landscape. This ensures that the specifications remain highly relevant and tailored to specific applications, minimizing potential confusion regarding the intended use of the standard. In summary, prEN 17180 provides essential guidelines for the safe and effective sterilization of thermolabile medical devices. Its strengths lie in establishing clear requirements and testing protocols, enhancing the reliability and safety of sterilization processes in medical environments. The standard's focus ensures that it remains relevant for healthcare settings seeking to implement effective sterilization solutions while maintaining environmental considerations.

prEN 17180 표준 문서는 저온 수증기 과산화수소 멸균기에 대한 요구사항과 시험 방법을 규정하고 있습니다. 이 표준의 범위는 의료 기기의 멸균을 위해 설계된 저온 과산화수소 멸균 장치의 성능, 설계 및 운영에 필요한 필수 요건을 명확히 합니다. 특히, 열에 민감한 의료 기기의 멸균에 주안점을 두고 있어, 의료 분야에서의 적용 가능성과 중요성이 더욱 부각됩니다. 이 문서의 강점 중 하나는 명확하고 구체적인 멸균 공정 요구사항을 제공하여, 사용자들이 멸균기가 효과적으로 의료 기기를 멸균할 수 있도록 하는 데 필요한 핵심 정보를 포함하고 있다는 점입니다. 또한, 장비와 제어 시스템의 요구사항을 명시함으로써, 운영 및 모니터링 과정에서의 신뢰성을 높이며, 멸균 과정의 검증을 위한 장비와 절차에 대한 기준을 세우고 있습니다. prEN 17180은 또한 다른 표준과의 연계성을 갖추고 있다는 특징이 있습니다. 예를 들어, EN ISO 13485와 같은 품질 관리 시스템 표준과의 연결을 통해 전반적인 품질 유지 관리의 중요성을 강조하고 있습니다. 이는 의료 기기 멸균 분야에서의 품질 보증이 필수적이라는 점을 잘 드러내줍니다. 환경적 측면도 고려하고 있는 이 문서는 Annex H를 통해 저온 과산화수소 멸균의 환경 영향에 대한 지침을 제공합니다. 이는 지속 가능성을 중시하는 현대 의료 환경에서 더욱 중요해지고 있는 요소입니다. 종합적으로 prEN 17180 표준은 저온 수증기 과산화수소 멸균기의 요구사항과 시험 방법을 체계적으로 정리하여, 의료 기기의 안전한 멸균을 위한 중요한 기초를 마련하고 있는 문서입니다.