SAQA All qualifications and part qualifications registered on the National Qualifications Framework are public property. Thus the only payment that can be made for them is for service and reproduction. It is illegal to sell this material for profit. If the material is reproduced or quoted, the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) should be acknowledged as the source.
SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED UNIT STANDARD THAT HAS PASSED THE END DATE: 

Clean and sterilise operating theatre central supply items 
SAQA US ID UNIT STANDARD TITLE
110440  Clean and sterilise operating theatre central supply items 
ORIGINATOR
SGB Hygiene & Cleaning Services 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY
-  
FIELD SUBFIELD
Field 11 - Services Cleaning, Domestic, Hiring, Property and Rescue Services 
ABET BAND UNIT STANDARD TYPE PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL CREDITS
Undefined  Regular  Level 2  NQF Level 02  16 
REGISTRATION STATUS REGISTRATION START DATE REGISTRATION END DATE SAQA DECISION NUMBER
Passed the End Date -
Status was "Reregistered" 		 2018-07-01  2023-06-30  SAQA 06120/18 
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2026-06-30   2029-06-30  

In all of the tables in this document, both the pre-2009 NQF Level and the NQF Level is shown. In the text (purpose statements, qualification rules, etc), any references to NQF Levels are to the pre-2009 levels unless specifically stated otherwise.  

This unit standard does not replace any other unit standard and is not replaced by any other unit standard. 

PURPOSE OF THE UNIT STANDARD 
Learners working towards this standard will be learning towards the full qualification, or will be involved in or working within a high risk cleaning services environment. Qualifying learners are able to clean and sterilise operating theatre central supply department items (CSSD items) in hospitals and day clinics operating rooms, and wards and dental surgeries. 

LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
The learner has the speaking and listening ability equal to an ABET Level 1 standard. The learner will have completed the unit standard Clean and disinfect operating rooms. 

UNIT STANDARD RANGE 
1. The scope of this unit standard is for any person who cleans and sterilises operating theatre CSSD in hospitals and day clinic operating rooms, wards and dental surgeries.
2. In the context of this unit standard sterilising equipment refers to autoclaves, flash autoclaves, sterilisers and dry heat ovens. Operating theatre CSSD items can include surgical instruments, protective clothing, and other items used by patients, doctors and staff.
3. The level assigned to this unit standard is appropriate because the process is limited in range, very repetitive and familiar, no generation of new ideas is needed and the person has no responsibility for the learning of others. 

Specific Outcomes and Assessment Criteria: 

SPECIFIC OUTCOME 1 
Prepare to clean and sterilise items. 

ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 

ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
1. Wears protective clothing. 

ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
2. Explains why protective clothing must be worn. 

ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
3. Explains the reasons for checking the condition of the steriliser/autoclave/hot air oven. 

ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
4. Checks the condition of the steriliser/autoclave/hot air oven. 

ASSESSMENT CRITERION 5 
5. Cleans the steriliser/autoclave/hot air oven. 

ASSESSMENT CRITERION 6 
6. Explains the reasons for cleaning the steriliser/autoclave/hot air oven. 

ASSESSMENT CRITERION 7 
7. Checks and/or performs the autoclave test for sterility daily, and keeps records according to manufacturers` requirements. 

ASSESSMENT CRITERION 8 
8. Explains the reasons for checking the autoclave test outcome before use according to test (as per site procedure). 

ASSESSMENT CRITERION 9 
9. Records all control tests according to work site procedures. 

ASSESSMENT CRITERION 10 
10. Prepares and applies the correct concentration of cleaning chemicals. 

ASSESSMENT CRITERION 11 
11. Explains the reasons for the correct cleaning chemical concentration and application. 

ASSESSMENT CRITERION 12 
12. Identifies, sorts and checks instruments according to work site procedures. 

ASSESSMENT CRITERION 13 
13. Lists the things that should not be done when working in a sterile environment. 

ASSESSMENT CRITERION 14 
14. Describes necessary precautions to take in a sterile environment. 

ASSESSMENT CRITERION 15 
15. Describes at least 2 potential health risks of incorrect implementation of procedures. 

ASSESSMENT CRITERION 16 
16. Describe at least two potential medico-legal risks of incorrect implementation of procedures. 

ASSESSMENT CRITERION 17 
17. Explains the reasons and importance for correct identification of instruments. 

ASSESSMENT CRITERION 18 
18. Explains the reasons why it is important to report faulty autoclave/sterilising equipment and or instruments. 

SPECIFIC OUTCOME 2 
Cleans and disinfects operating theatre CSSD items. 

ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 

ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
1. Applies the correct cleaning, washing and disinfecting procedures for operating theatre CSSD items, according to work site procedures. 

ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
2. Explains the reasons for applying the correct cleaning and/or disinfecting procedures. 

ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
3. Applies the correct folding procedure of cleaned protective clothing items according to work site procedures. 

ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
4. Explains why protective clothing is folded in a particular manner. 

ASSESSMENT CRITERION 5 
5. Applies the correct packing procedure of operating theatre CSSD items according to work site procedures. 

ASSESSMENT CRITERION 6 
6. Explains the importance of using the correct packing procedures for operating theatre CSSD items. 

ASSESSMENT CRITERION 7 
7. Checks that the correct items are packed according to checklists, site or operational procedures. 

ASSESSMENT CRITERION 8 
8. Explains 3 reasons for using checklists. 

ASSESSMENT CRITERION 9 
9. Before closing the pack adds the control indication strip for sterilising purposes. 

ASSESSMENT CRITERION 10 
10. Tapes the pack and labels with pack name and expiry date as per checklist and site procedures. 

ASSESSMENT CRITERION 11 
11. Explains the term disinfection. 

ASSESSMENT CRITERION 12 
12. Explains the term sterilisation. 

ASSESSMENT CRITERION 13 
13. Explains why different chemicals are used such as enzymatic, disinfectants or lubrication milk. 

ASSESSMENT CRITERION 14 
14. Explains why the sterilising control indication strip must be added to the pack prior to sterilisation. 

ASSESSMENT CRITERION 15 
15. Explains why the pack must be strapped and labelled. 

SPECIFIC OUTCOME 3 
Sterilises operating theatre CSSD items. 

ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 

ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
1. Prepares the sterilising equipment according to the work site procedures. 

ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
2. Explains the importance of correctly preparing sterilising equipment. 

ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
3. Applies the correct loading and unloading according to work site procedures. 

ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
4. Explains the importance of following the correct loading and unloading procedures. 

ASSESSMENT CRITERION 5 
5. Operates the sterilising equipment according to work site and safety procedures. 

ASSESSMENT CRITERION 6 
6. Describes the operating and safety procedures of the sterilising equipment. 

ASSESSMENT CRITERION 7 
7. Checks control indicators of sterilising equipment according to work site procedures. 

ASSESSMENT CRITERION 8 
8. Explains the reason for performing daily checks of the control indicator procedure. 

ASSESSMENT CRITERION 9 
9. Explains why control tests must be performed daily. 

ASSESSMENT CRITERION 10 
10. Reports faulty equipment according to work site procedures. 

ASSESSMENT CRITERION 11 
11. Explains the reporting procedure applicable to faulty equipment. 

SPECIFIC OUTCOME 4 
Controls the central sterile supply department store. 

ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 

ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
1. Keeps the storeroom clean and dust free at all times according to the work site procedures. 

ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
2. Explains reasons for keeping the storeroom clean and dust free at all times. 

ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
3. Uses only cleaning equipment dedicated to the CSSD. 

ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
4. Explains why only dedicated CSSD cleaning equipment should be used. 

ASSESSMENT CRITERION 5 
5. Handles the sterilised items and stock according to work site procedures. 

ASSESSMENT CRITERION 6 
6. Explains why sterilised items and stock are handled in accordance with work site procedures. 

ASSESSMENT CRITERION 7 
7. Identifies the expiry dates on sterile packs. 

ASSESSMENT CRITERION 8 
8. Explains the implications of expiry dates on the sterile packs. 

ASSESSMENT CRITERION 9 
9. Removes CSSD items before expiry. 

ASSESSMENT CRITERION 10 
10. Gives at least 2 examples of items with a different shelf life. 

ASSESSMENT CRITERION 11 
11. Checks and reports that there is enough stock. 

ASSESSMENT CRITERION 12 
12. Determines the quality of his work by using a systematic checking procedure. 

ASSESSMENT CRITERION 13 
13. Identifies and solves problems within his scope of work procedures. 

ASSESSMENT CRITERION 14 
14. Packs the sterilised items according to work site procedures. 

ASSESSMENT CRITERION 15 
15. Explains why the completed work must be inspected. 

ASSESSMENT CRITERION 16 
16. Explains the reasons for doing the work right first time. 

SPECIFIC OUTCOME 5 
Perform end of shift procedures. 

ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 

ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
1. Follows the correct hand-over procedures. 

ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
2. Explains the importance of following the correct hand-over procedures. 

ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
3. Informs next shift of all relevant information. 

ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
4. Explains why information sharing is important at shift hand-over. 


UNIT STANDARD ACCREDITATION AND MODERATION OPTIONS 
1. An assessor accredited by the Services SETA ETQA will assess the competency.
2. Assessment procedures will be supplied to the ETQA in alignment with NSB requirements.
3. All assessment activities must be fair so that all candidates can have equal opportunities.
4. Assessment will be free of gender, ethnic or other bias.
5. Questions and answers must determine the theoretical knowledge.
6. Direct observation, preferably in the workplace, or as a second choice in simulated conditions are preferred.
7. A practical demonstration of competencies is required in this unit standard.
8. Reporting skills are demonstrated by effective communication that may be verbal or any other agreed upon method.
9. Internal Moderation: could be determined by the provider. 

UNIT STANDARD ESSENTIAL EMBEDDED KNOWLEDGE 
Embedded knowledge is reflected within the assessment criteria of each specific outcome. 

UNIT STANDARD DEVELOPMENTAL OUTCOME 
N/A 

UNIT STANDARD LINKAGES 
N/A 


Critical Cross-field Outcomes (CCFO): 

UNIT STANDARD CCFO IDENTIFYING 
Identify and solve problems in which response displays that responsible decisions, using critical and creative thinking, have been made.

Evident in Specific Outcome 5.
  • Perform end of shift procedures. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO WORKING 
    2. Work effectively with others as a member of a team, group, organisation or community.

    Evident in Specific Outcome 5.
  • Perform end of shift procedures. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO ORGANISING 
    Organise and manage oneself and one`s activities responsibly and effectively.

    Evident in Specific Outcome 2.
  • Cleans and disinfects operating theatre CSSD items. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO COMMUNICATING 
    Communicate effectively by using mathematical and/or language skills in the modes of oral and/or written presentation.

    Evident in Specific Outcome 3.
  • Sterilises operating theatre CSSD items. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO SCIENCE 
    Use science and technology effectively and critically, showing responsibility towards the environment and health of others.

    Evident in Specific Outcome 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5.
  • Prepare to clean and sterilise items.
  • Cleans and disinfects operating theatre CSSD items.
  • Sterilises operating theatre CSSD items.
  • Controls the central sterile supply department store.
  • Perform end of shift procedures. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO CONTRIBUTING 
    Contribute to the full personal development of each learner and the social and economic development of the society at large by participating as a responsible citizen in the life of local, national and global communities.

    Evident in Specific Outcome 5.
  • Perform end of shift procedures. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD ASSESSOR CRITERIA 
    N/A 

    REREGISTRATION HISTORY 
    As per the SAQA Board decision/s at that time, this unit standard was Reregistered in 2012; 2015. 

    UNIT STANDARD NOTES 
    Definition of terms within this unit standard:

    1. Autoclave: Steam pressure unit used for wet sterilising of CSSD items.
    2. Sterile packs: A collection of items packed, sealed and sterilised before use.
    3. CSSD: Central Sterile Supply Department. 

    QUALIFICATIONS UTILISING THIS UNIT STANDARD: 
      ID QUALIFICATION TITLE PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL STATUS END DATE PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QA FUNCTIONARY
    Elective  36233   National Certificate: Specialist Hygiene and Cleaning Services  Level 2  NQF Level 02  Passed the End Date -
    Status was "Reregistered"     		 2023-06-30  SERVICES 


    PROVIDERS CURRENTLY ACCREDITED TO OFFER THIS UNIT STANDARD: 
    This information shows the current accreditations (i.e. those not past their accreditation end dates), and is the most complete record available to SAQA as of today. Some Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionaries have a lag in their recording systems for provider accreditation, in turn leading to a lag in notifying SAQA of all the providers that they have accredited to offer qualifications and unit standards, as well as any extensions to accreditation end dates. The relevant Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionary should be notified if a record appears to be missing from here.
     
    NONE 


    All qualifications and part qualifications registered on the National Qualifications Framework are public property. Thus the only payment that can be made for them is for service and reproduction. It is illegal to sell this material for profit. If the material is reproduced or quoted, the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) should be acknowledged as the source.