Results of a round-robin test on a mini-autoclave are reported and previously proposed criteria reviewed. Criteria based upon the results for three standard materials are now put forward. These standards-based criteria, in contrast to numerical criteria, theoretically allow any laboratory to utilize the data accumulated to date, irrespective of the equipment used. The practical requirement is that adequate discrimination can be achieved. Data to assess this are given. (C) 2006 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.