What does the term “sterility assurance level” (SAL) refer to?

The term "sterility assurance level" (SAL) specifically refers to the probability of a viable microorganism being present after sterilization, and it is typically expressed as 10^-6. This means that after the sterilization process, there is a one in one million chance that any viable microorganisms are left on the sterilized item. This definition is critical in the field of sterilization because it provides a quantifiable measure of the effectiveness of the sterilization process, ensuring that medical instruments and devices are safe for use.

In sterilization processes, achieving a standard SAL is essential for compliance with health regulations and standards. The use of SAL helps guide healthcare facilities in selecting appropriate sterilization methods and validating that they achieve the required level of safety for patient care. Understanding SAL is vital for professionals working in sterile processing and infection control, as it directly impacts patient safety and the risk of hospital-acquired infections.