Collection: Bowie Dick Tests

Bowie Dick Tests for Steam Class B Pre/Post Vacuum Autoclaves

What Is a Bowie Dick Test?

A Bowie Dick test is a daily air-removal test used to verify that a dynamic-air-removal (pre-vacuum) steam sterilizer is working correctly before the first processed load of the day.

It's a sensitive and rapid means of detecting air leaks, inadequate air removal, inadequate steam penetration, and non-condensable gases that can compromise a sterilization cycle.

How a Bowie Dick Test Works

The test uses a chemical indicator sheet placed at the center of a standardized test pack: after a cycle, a uniform color change signals that air was fully removed and steam penetrated evenly, while a non-uniform color development points to a trapped air pocket and a potential sterilizer problem.

Why Bowie Dick Testing Matters

This test matters because air is the enemy of steam sterilization.

Insufficient air removal in a pre-vacuum cycle can defeat sterilization and result in nonsterile supplies if undetected—putting patients and staff at risk.

Running a Bowie Dick test each day the sterilizer is used gives your facility a fast, documented check on sterilizer performance and steam quality, helping you meet AAMI and ISO 11140-4 requirements, catch equipment faults early, and maintain a reliable sterility assurance program.

Bowie Dick Test Packs, Cards & Daily Test Kits

Browse our selection of Bowie Dick test packs, test cards, and once-a-day kits for pre/post-vacuum steam autoclaves below.