HTM 01-05 specifies that each instrument must be visually inspected after cleaning; it further recommends the use of an illuminated magnifier to improve the ease and efficiency of the inspection.
The inspection should identify:
Instruments that are blunt, bent or damaged or show any signs of pitting or other corrosion should be discarded or, if appropriate, sent for repair
There is free movement of all parts and that joints do not stick
The edges of clamping instruments meet with no overlap and that teeth mesh together
Scissor edges meet to the tip and move freely across each other with no overlap or rough edges
All screws on jointed instruments are tight and have not become loose during use Instruments should be inspected for any visible soiling such as blood or dental materials, especially joints, hinges or the serrated surfaces of jaws, which are difficult to clean
If there is any residual contamination, the instrument should be rejected and should undergo another cycle of the cleaning process.