3M 1261 Biological Indicator Gravity Steam Sterilization

Product Description

The 3M 1261 is a self-contained biological indicator (BI) designed to monitor the effectiveness of 270 degrees F / 132 degrees C gravity steam sterilization cycles. Each vial contains a Geobacillus stearothermophilus spore strip, a sealed glass ampule filled with nutrient growth medium, and a bromocresol purple pH indicator dye system. A blue color-coded cap with penetration holes and an internal filter allows sterilant contact while acting as a contamination barrier. A chemical indicator printed on the label changes from rose to brown when the vial has been processed, providing a quick visual confirmation that the cycle ran. Licensed HVAC techs and plumbers are not the audience here - this product is used by sterile processing technicians, central service professionals, and infection control staff in healthcare facilities.

The 1261 is used in healthcare settings where gravity steam sterilization cycles at 270 degrees F / 132 degrees C are routinely run. After a sterilization cycle, the vial is crushed to combine the growth medium with the spore strip. The BI is then incubated for 24 hours. A color change to yellow indicates surviving spores and a positive result, meaning sterilization was not achieved. No color change confirms cycle effectiveness. This indicator is intended for use with the 3M Attest Biological Indicator Incubator 116 and is sold 100 vials per box, 4 boxes per carton.

Key Features

• Monitors 270 degrees F / 132 degrees C gravity steam sterilization cycles
• Self-contained design reduces contamination risk and minimizes false positives
• Visual color-change readout: rose-to-brown label indicator confirms processing; yellow medium indicates a positive (failed) result
• 24-hour incubation result versus multi-day mail-in spore testing services
• Spore burden exceeds average bioburden levels, providing an extra margin of safety
• Optimized growth medium promotes rapid spore growth for a definitive color-change endpoint

Compatibility

Designed for use with 270 degrees F / 132 degrees C gravity steam sterilization cycles. Intended for use in conjunction with the 3M Attest Biological Indicator Incubator 116.

Installation Notes

Biological indicators should be placed in the most challenging location within the sterilizer load per facility protocol and the sterilizer manufacturer's instructions. Power down or complete the sterilization cycle fully before retrieving the vial for processing. After cycle completion, crush the vial to initiate incubation and place in the appropriate incubator immediately. Follow facility infection control policies and applicable standards for biological indicator handling, documentation, and positive-result response procedures.