We have re-issued this publication following its five year review.
Our advice has not changed since the 2006 version; this edition has minor editorial changes only.
To reuse a single-use device without considering the consequences identified in this document could expose the patient and staff to risks which outweigh the perceived benefits of using the devices.
Key points:
- A device designated as ‘single-use’ must not be reused. It should only be used on an individual patient during a single procedure and then discarded. It is not intended to be reprocessed and used again, even on the same patient.
- The reuse of single-use devices can affect their safety, performance and effectiveness, exposing patients and staff to unnecessary risk.
- The reuse of single-use devices has legal implications.
We also have a leaflet to help clarify the term 'single-use' and the symbol that is used to represent it.
Permission to reproduce section 4.2 from BS EN 980: 2003 (E) is granted by BSI. British Standards can be obtained from BSI Customer Services, 389 Chiswick High Road, London W4 4AL. Tel: +44 (0)20 8996 9001. email: cservices@bsi-global.com.
Advice first published in 2000, revised 2006.
Single-use medical devices 
