Sterilized using irradiation (STERILE R)
The standard’s wording, as the sources below reproduce it:
“Indicates a medical device that has been sterilized using irradiation.”
ISO 15223-1:2021, 5.2.4 · ISO 7000-2502
What it means for you
R stands for radiation: the sealed pack was sterilised with irradiation. The product itself is not radioactive.
Whether a device is right for you is a question for your pharmacist, nurse or doctor.
- What it looks like
- A STERILE box with an extra cell holding the letter R.
- Where you see it
- Syringes, needles, sutures, dressings and gloves.
- Other names
- STERILE R; gamma sterilised; radiation sterilised
What it does not tell you
It does not mean the product gives off radiation, and does not say which kind of irradiation was used.
Often confused with
Indicates a medical device that has been sterilized using ethylene oxide.
More symbols in “The word STERILE”
Sources
ISO 15223-1 is a paid standard, so the wording above is quoted as 3 publishers’ public documents reproduce it. Each was fetched and read on the date shown:
- Boston Scientific: Symbols Glossary — ISO 15223-1 5.2.4 “Sterilized using irradiation — Indicates a medical device that has been sterilized using irradiation.” Image labelled ISO 7000-2502. Checked 2026-09-25.
- NE Scientific: Master Symbol Glossary (CTF-100011 Rev 01) — Shows the STERILE | R box for reference no. 5.2.4 (ISO 7000-2502). Checked 2026-09-25.
- Cook Medical: Glossary of standard symbols — ISO 15223-1 5.2.4 “Sterilized using irradiation — Indicates a medical device that has been sterilized using irradiation.” Checked 2026-09-25.
Plain-language parts are in our own words; quotations are the sources’ wording.