UNSPSC 42281508: Steam autoclaves or sterilizers

In this classification, this commodity indicates a product that is steam based, used to destroy microorganisms in or on, usually by bringing to a high temperature with steam, dry heat, or boiling liquid, in a medical setting. US FDA regulates Steam autoclaves or sterilizers under 21 CFR 880.6880 and under FDA product code FLE. Most nations, for tariff and trade purposes, schedule these products under HS 841920.

UNSPSC 42281508 Steam autoclaves or sterilizers, a Commodity code, covers the procurement and maintenance of autoclave equipment used by state and local health care facilities, laboratories, water utilities, and research institutions. State and local buyers are soliciting both capital equipment purchases (new autoclaves) and ongoing maintenance, inspection, calibration, and repair services; the code spans manual and automatic sterilizers across a range of chamber sizes and operational contexts. Issuing bodies include state procurement offices acting on behalf of enterprise asset management divisions, municipal water utilities, regional cancer research centers, and independent school districts seeking equipment for clinical and instructional programs. The work is highly specialized, requiring technicians to hold current CRCST, CBSPD, or equivalent regulatory autoclave certifications and maintain documented manufacturer training and annual recertification on specific equipment models.

Recent activity spans Oregon, California, Georgia, and Texas. The Oregon Department of Administrative Services, State Procurement Services issued an RFP in June 2026 (due August 17, 2026) for annual inspection, calibration, and repair services on five autoclaves at the North Valley Complex in Wilsonville, with a not-to-exceed compensation of $5 million and a 5 percent Oregon-fabrication preference; technicians must hold current CRCST or CBSPD certification and one year of hands-on experience, with 24-hour emergency response required. The State of California solicited bids for Sterilgard biosafety cabinets with integrated sterilization functions in April 2026 (due May 11, 2026) under RFB-IS-26200890, requiring full compliance with technical specifications and CBE (Certified Business Enterprise) certification consideration. The Macon Water Authority in Bibb County, Georgia issued an IFB in February 2026 (due March 10, 2026) for a single new Tuttnauer 3870EAP manual sterilizer with 22-gallon capacity, delivered FOB Destination to a water treatment facility. MD Anderson Cancer Center's Division of Facilities Management in Texas posted an RFP in February 2026 (due February 24, 2026) for preventive maintenance and repair services on glass washers with integrated autoclaves and electric steam boilers, requiring manufacturer certification, 2-hour response during business hours, and 1-hour emergency response with 4-hour on-site arrival.